Last updated by Nuala Williamson on 13th January 2026.

The FA Cup continues to stand apart as one of football’s most cherished competitions. With its unique knockout format, rich tradition and capacity for unforgettable moments, the tournament once again delivers drama across every level of the English game.

Following an eventful opening to the FA Cup 2025/26 season, the Fourth Round draw has now been made, setting up a compelling run of fixtures as clubs edge closer to the latter stages — and a potential return to Wembley Stadium.

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Why the FA Cup still matters

More than 150 years after its inception, the FA Cup remains a defining part of English football culture. Its open format allows clubs from across the football pyramid to compete on the same stage, creating rare match-ups and genuine opportunities for underdogs to make history.

For supporters, the competition offers variety, jeopardy and moments that league football simply cannot replicate — from famous giant-killings to classic finals watched by millions.

What has happened so far in the FA Cup 2025/26?

The opening three rounds of the FA Cup 2025/26 have already showcased the competition’s enduring appeal — combining early-season ambition, growing momentum and the return of top-flight drama in January.

First round proper

The First Round proper, played across late October and early November, brought together clubs from League One, League Two and non-league football. As ever, the focus was on progression, with teams eager to extend their cup runs and earn the opportunity to face higher-ranked opposition.

A number of lower-league sides impressed with confident performances, laying the foundations for memorable journeys and highlighting the financial and sporting significance of advancing through the early stages.

Second round proper

December’s Second Round narrowed the field further, with intensity rising as clubs moved within touching distance of the Third Round proper. Tight contests and disciplined displays were common, with several matches settled by fine margins.

By the end of the round, attention had firmly turned to January — and the arrival of Premier League and Championship teams — as anticipation built for one of the most anticipated weekends in the football calendar.

Third round proper

The Third Round proper once again delivered the drama that defines the FA Cup. With top-flight and second-tier clubs entering the competition, the round produced a familiar mix of commanding victories and notable upsets.

Several lower-league sides rose to the occasion against elite opposition, while a number of Premier League clubs asserted their quality to secure safe passage into the Fourth Round. The balance between unpredictability and quality underlined why this stage remains such a highlight for supporters nationwide.

With the final whistle blown on the Third Round, the competition was reduced to 32 teams — setting the stage for a compelling Fourth Round draw.

FA Cup Fourth Round: Confirmed fixtures

Following the draw made live on Monday 12 January 2026, the Fourth Round proper — to be played around the weekend of Saturday 14 February 2026 — features 16 intriguing ties.

Full Fourth Round fixture list

  • Liverpool vs Brighton & Hove Albion
  • Stoke City vs Fulham
  • Oxford United vs Sunderland
  • Southampton vs Leicester City
  • Wrexham vs Ipswich Town
  • Norwich City vs West Bromwich Albion
  • Arsenal vs Wigan Athletic
  • Hull City vs Chelsea
  • Port Vale vs Bristol City
  • Grimsby Town vs Wolverhampton Wanderers
  • Burton Albion vs West Ham United
  • Aston Villa vs Newcastle United
  • Burnley vs Mansfield Town
  • Manchester City vs Salford City
  • Macclesfield vs Brentford
  • Birmingham City vs Leeds United

Notable storylines here include Macclesfield drawing Premier League opposition again after their historic Third Round victory, and Wrexham continuing their fairy-tale run against Championship challengers Ipswich.

Fan reaction to the draw has been mixed, with some critics claiming the “big six” were handed favourable ties and sparking debate about luck and fixture balance, though there’s no suggestion of anything other than a fair draw.

Key dates for the FA Cup 2025/26

The remaining schedule for the competition is as follows:

  • Fourth round proper – Late January / early February 2026
  • Fifth round proper – February 2026
  • Quarter-finals – March 2026
  • Semi-finals – April 2026 at Wembley Stadium
  • FA Cup Final – May 2026 at Wembley Stadium

Each round brings increased stakes, with the latter stages offering some of the most prestigious matchdays in domestic football.

The enduring legacy of the FA Cup

From historic finals to modern-day classics, the FA Cup has produced moments that transcend generations. Lifting the trophy remains a career-defining achievement for players and a landmark honour for clubs of every size.

As the 2025/26 season progresses, new stories will continue to emerge — reinforcing why the competition still commands such respect and attention.

How to experience the FA Cup in style

The later rounds of the FA Cup offer a premium matchday experience, particularly at iconic venues such as Wembley Stadium. Hospitality packages allow fans to enjoy the occasion with added comfort, excellent dining and premium seating.

Whether it is a Fourth Round tie with added intrigue or a showpiece semi-final beneath the Wembley arch, VIP experiences elevate the day while keeping the focus firmly on the football.

Explore FA Cup hospitality packages with Seat Unique and experience one of the game’s most historic competitions in exceptional surroundings.

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