The FA Cup stands as the world’s oldest national football knockout competition, captivating fans since 1871 with its magic moments and giant-killings. Known formally as the Football Association Challenge Cup, it welcomes over 700 teams from England’s top flight to non-league minnows, all chasing glory at Wembley. Crystal Palace lifted the 2025 FA Cup trophy after a stunning 1-0 final win over Manchester City, thanks to Eberechi Eze’s volley and Dean Henderson’s penalty heroics—their first major honor. As the 2025-26 season heats up with third-round matches this weekend, here’s your complete guide.
What is the FA Cup? Format and Unique Appeal
Open to any affiliated English club, the FA Cup starts in August with extra-preliminary rounds, building to 12 rounds, semis, and final. No seeding—pure random draws create upsets like Hereford United’s 1972 replay win over Newcastle. Replays end after first-round proper this season, with ties going to penalties.
Unlike the FA League Cup (EFL Cup), a league-based midweek event, the FA Cup spans weekends and includes all levels. Cup FA searches often highlight its egalitarian charm: non-league sides can topple giants.
Who Won the FA Cup 2025? Palace’s Historic Triumph
Who won the FA Cup 2025? Crystal Palace, in a Wembley shocker on May 17, 2025. Eze volleyed home after 16 minutes off a Daniel Munoz cross, then Henderson saved Omar Marmoush’s penalty amid City’s barrage. Palace withstood 10+ stoppage minutes, ending City’s domestic hopes. Man City hit 6-0 finals before, but Palace etched history.
When is FA Cup Final 2026? Key Dates and Schedule
When is FA Cup final? The 2026 showpiece hits Wembley on Saturday, May 16, at 4:30 PM BST.
Full 2025-26 fixtures roadmap:
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Third Round: Weekend of Jan 10-11, 2026 (Premier League enters).
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Highlights: Portsmouth vs Arsenal (TNT Sports), Derby vs Leeds.
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Fourth Round: Feb 14 weekend.
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Fifth Round: March 7.
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Quarters: April 4.
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Semis: April 25.
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Final: May 16.
Follow live scores on ESPN or TheFA.com.
| Round | Date (2025-26) | Teams Enter |
|---|---|---|
| Third | Jan 10-11 | Premier League, Championship |
| Fourth | Feb 14 | All survivors |
| Final | May 16 | Two finalists |
FA Cup History: Records, Giant-Killings, and Traditions
Since Wanderers’ inaugural 1872 win, 150+ finals have unfolded. Arsenal leads with 14 victories; Manchester United 13. Biggest final blowout: Bury 6-0 Derby (1903).
Iconic matchs de FA Cup:
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1953: Blackpool’s “Matthews Final” comeback.
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1990: Wimbledon stuns Liverpool.
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Longest drought: Portsmouth’s 69 years (1939-2008).
Non-league feats define it expect more in 2026.
Where to Watch FA Cup: Broadcasters (Qui diffuse la FA Cup)
UK: BBC, ITV, TNT Sports stream select games, including third round. France (qui diffuse la FA Cup): beIN Sports often airs finals. Globally: ESPN (US), DAZN, local rights vary. Check TheFA.com for live streams.
FA Cup Cup excitement peaks on free-to-air TV, drawing massive views.
Past Winners and Trends
| Year | Winner | Score | Runner-Up |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Crystal Palace | 1-0 | Man City |
| 2024 | Man Utd | 2-1 | Man City |
| 2023 | Man City | 2-0 | Man Utd |
Premier League clubs dominate, but Palace’s upset bucks the trend.
Betting and Fan Engagement
Paddy Power notes third-round gems like Wrexham vs Forest. Tickets for final? Ballots via clubs; resale secondary market heats up.
Why the FA Cup Endures
Amid packed schedules, its romance persists dreams for underdogs, prestige for elites. As 2026 third round looms (Portsmouth-Arsenal Sunday), who fancies Palace’s defense?
Common Questions
When is FA Cup final?
May 16, 2026, 4:30 PM Wembley.
Who won the FA Cup 2025?
Crystal Palace 1-0 Man City.
FA Cup vs League Cup?
FA Cup open to all; League Cup pro-only.
FA Cup fixtures today?
Check TheFA.com for live updates.
Dive into the magic third round starts now!
