The FA Cup is undergoing significant changes starting from the next season, as replays will no longer be part of the competition from the first round proper. Matches will now be exclusively scheduled on weekends, following an agreement between the FA and the Premier League for a minimum of six years. This move aims to "strengthen" the competition with "new and exclusive calendar windows".
In light of the expanded UEFA competitions and changes to the calendar, the decision to eliminate replays from the first round proper has been made. Previously, replays were already removed from the fifth round onwards. The fourth and fifth rounds, along with the quarter-finals, will be played without any Premier League fixtures taking place on the same weekends.
To accommodate the new format, the fourth round will have an extended fixture window from Friday to Wednesday. Additionally, the final will now be held on the penultimate weekend of the Premier League season, ensuring there are no top-flight fixtures on the same day or night before the final.
In a bid to support grassroots football, the Premier League has increased funding to the football pyramid, providing up to an additional £33m. Starting from the 2025-26 season, the league will provide up to £133m per season. Furthermore, the calendar will no longer include a mid-season break, allowing for a mid-August start date for the Premier League and a longer summer break.
