Last updated by Nuala Williamson on 5th January 2026

The Carabao Cup Final is set to return to Wembley Stadium in March 2026, with Arsenal and Manchester City preparing to contest one of English football’s most established domestic trophies. First introduced in 1960, the competition has long offered clubs the earliest opportunity each season to lift silverware, while also providing a platform for squad depth, emerging talent and tactical flexibility.

Now firmly embedded in the football calendar, the Carabao Cup has delivered memorable finals at Wembley over the decades, with recent editions reflecting the strength and depth of the Premier League’s leading sides. Liverpool are the current holders, having lifted the trophy in the 2025 final, adding another chapter to the competition’s rich history.

As two of the Premier League’s most influential teams of the modern era, Arsenal and Manchester City meeting at Wembley promises a compelling conclusion to the 2025/26 Carabao Cup, blending tradition with contemporary rivalry.

With tickets in high demand and hospitality packages offering a premium way to experience the final, supporters are already looking ahead to a showcase occasion at Wembley Stadium, complete with world-class football and the occasion that only a domestic cup final can provide.

Book Carabao Cup Final hospitality

When is the Carabao Cup Final 2026?

The Carabao Cup Final 2026 will take place on Sunday 22nd March 2026 at Wembley Stadium.

Kick-off time is expected to be confirmed closer to the fixture, with finals in recent seasons typically starting in the late afternoon or early evening to accommodate broadcast schedules.

Venue: Wembley Stadium

Wembley Stadium remains the long-standing home of the Carabao Cup Final. With a capacity of 90,000, it offers an unrivalled setting for domestic finals and ensures fans from both clubs can experience the occasion on the biggest stage in English football.

From the iconic arch to the walk up Wembley Way, the venue plays a central role in the sense of occasion surrounding the final.

Arsenal’s semi-final journey

Arsenal booked their place in the 2026 Carabao Cup Final with a convincing semi-final performance over Chelsea. In the first leg at Stamford Bridge, the Gunners secured a 3-2 win, setting the tone for the tie. In the second leg at the Emirates Stadium, Kai Havertz scored a dramatic late winner in stoppage time, sealing a 1-0 victory on the night and a 4-2 aggregate triumph to send Arsenal to Wembley. Havertz’s composed finish around the goalkeeper was the decisive moment, breaking a tense deadlock and sparking jubilant celebrations among the home crowd.

Across both legs, Arsenal balanced tactical discipline with attacking quality, demonstrating their depth and resilience under pressure — with the tie ultimately decided by a moment of individual brilliance from Havertz.

Manchester City’s semi-final journey

Manchester City approached their semi-final against Newcastle United with trademark control and efficiency. In the first leg at St James’ Park, City produced a dominant 5-1 victory, putting the tie firmly in their favour. They then cemented their place in the final with a 2-0 second-leg win at the Etihad Stadium, completing a 7-1 aggregate success and showcasing their clinical edge in attack and solid organisation at the back.

Key moments included City’s relentless pressing early in the first leg to build a commanding lead, and a composed defensive display in the return fixture to maintain control of the tie and prevent a comeback attempt from the defending champions.

Arsenal vs Manchester City

Manchester City have enjoyed periods of dominance in domestic competitions over the past decade, including strong performances in the Carabao Cup. Arsenal, meanwhile, have steadily rebuilt their standing, re-emerging as consistent challengers across league and cup football.

Carabao Cup pedigree

  • Manchester City are among the most successful clubs in the competition’s history, with multiple titles won in the modern era
  • Arsenal have lifted the trophy twice, with their most recent success coming in the early 1990s

This final offers Arsenal the chance to add to their Carabao Cup honours, while City will aim to reaffirm their reputation as one of the competition’s defining teams.

What’s at stake in the Carabao Cup Final?

Beyond silverware, the Carabao Cup Final provides momentum heading into the final months of the season. For players and managers alike, winning at Wembley carries prestige, confidence and a tangible reward for squad depth and consistency.

For supporters, it is also one of the most accessible domestic finals, with a long-standing tradition of colour, noise and occasion at Wembley Stadium.

Carabao Cup Final hospitality tickets at Wembley Stadium

The Carabao Cup Final is one of the most sought-after dates in the domestic football calendar, and hospitality tickets for the Carabao Cup Final at Wembley Stadium offer a premium way to experience the occasion. With standard tickets often in limited supply, official hospitality provides supporters with guaranteed entry alongside elevated comfort and service.

What is included with Carabao Cup Final hospitality?

Carabao Cup hospitality packages typically include:

  • Premium padded seating within Wembley Stadium
  • Access to exclusive hospitality lounges before and after the match
  • Inclusive food and drink, ranging from informal dining to premium menus depending on the package
  • A dedicated, relaxed environment away from the general concourse

These experiences are designed to enhance the matchday while keeping the focus firmly on the football itself.

Why choose hospitality for the Carabao Cup Final?

Choosing Carabao Cup Final hospitality tickets allows supporters to enjoy Wembley Stadium at its best. From arrival through to full-time, hospitality offers a smoother, more refined experience, particularly for a showpiece fixture that attracts a national and global audience.

Hospitality is also popular for group bookings, corporate guests or supporters celebrating a special occasion, combining the prestige of a domestic cup final with a high standard of comfort and service.

Carabao Cup Final 2026 hospitality demand

With Arsenal and Manchester City contesting the final, demand for Carabao Cup Final 2026 hospitality is expected to be especially strong. Both clubs bring large followings and recent success, contributing to high interest in Wembley experiences across all seating levels..

How to experience the Carabao Cup Final in style

Watching a cup final at Wembley is a special experience, and official hospitality packages elevate it further. From premium seating to inclusive food and drink, hospitality offers a refined way to enjoy one of English football’s showpiece events.

Supporters looking to secure a memorable matchday can explore official Carabao Cup Final hospitality options, designed to combine comfort, service and outstanding views of the action.

Book Carabao Cup Final hospitality