The BBC and TNT Sports have announced an extended agreement to broadcast the FC Cup for the next four years.
TNT Sports was initially the main rights holder for the 2025/26 season, but on behalf of the FC, the British broadcaster agreed to cooperate with free-to-air networks, including the BBC and ITV, which previously shared broadcast rights.
Under the joint broadcast, both broadcasters will present FA Cup matches from the opening rounds and subsequent quarter-finals and semi-finals, and both will broadcast the final on their respective platforms.
Additionally, from 2025 to 2029, all FA Cup matches starting outside the 3pm blackout period will be broadcast live for the first time. It is likely that the BBC will also gain rights to broadcast highlights as part of this package to be shown on Match of the Day.
Retaining the rights to broadcast the FA Cup will be key for the national broadcaster, who have broadcast the oldest tournament since 1938, including the first ever televised final between Preston North End and Huddersfield Town
While the idea of co-broadcasting a cup tournament between free-to-air and pay-per-view TV is not new, the £264 million deal the FA struck with TNT Sports has sparked intense criticism among football fans across the UK.
Pay-TV subscriptions are on the rise to watch football in the UK, with Sky Sports and TNT Sports requiring monthly fees to broadcast the Premier League and UEFA Champions League. While the influx of streaming services acquiring sports rights has increased tenfold over the past year.
The FA says the £264 million deal with TNT Sports is a significant source of income for the organization, which will be used to support grassroots football initiatives across the country.
Mark Bullingham, FA Chief Executive, commented: “The Emirates FA Cup is our crown jewel, and it helps us to provide vital investment across every level of English football, supporting clubs, communities, facilities and the wider grassroots game. Every season, and across every round, The Emirates FA Cup creates incredible moments and unforgettable memories for fans. TNT Sports are an outstanding broadcaster with an impressive record of showing some of the biggest and best sporting events around the world, so we are delighted to be working with them on our shared commitment and long-term vision that will ensure the Emirates FA Cup continues to thrive over the coming years.”
Don’t forget to subscribe to our Telegram channel!
