The world's oldest football competition returns this weekend with a significant twist, as the FA Cup third round adopts a new format that spells the end for traditional replays. Clubs across England and Wales must adapt to the fresh regulations designed to ease fixture congestion.
What Are The New FA Cup Third Round Rules?
The most notable change is the complete abolition of drawn-match replays from this stage of the competition. Under the updated rules, if any FA Cup third round match is level after the standard 90 minutes, the teams will proceed directly to extra time.
This extra period will consist of two halves of 15 minutes each. Should the scores remain tied after a total of 120 minutes, the fixture will be decided by a penalty shootout, ensuring a winner is found on the day.
Why Have The FA Cup Rules Changed?
The driving force behind this historic shift is the expanding schedule of UEFA club competitions, including the Champions League and Europa League. With fewer available midweek dates in the football calendar, the move aims to guarantee that FA Cup rounds can be played exclusively on weekends.
This strategic change helps to avoid direct clashes with Premier League fixtures and reduces the burden of a congested schedule on players. The new format provides clarity and finality for clubs and fans alike.
FA Cup Third Round 2026: Fixtures And Key Details
The action for this season's third round is scheduled for the weekend of January 10, 2026. This is the prestigious stage where the elite join the fray, with 20 Premier League and 24 EFL Championship sides entering the tournament. They will face the victorious clubs from the second round.
The weekend's schedule is packed with potential giant-killings and classic ties:
Friday night kicks off with fixtures including Wrexham versus Nottingham Forest and Preston North End against Wigan Athletic.
Saturday sees a full slate of games, such as Macclesfield hosting Crystal Palace, Everton taking on Sunderland, and the reigning champions Manchester City facing Exeter City. Other notable matches include Tottenham Hotspur against Aston Villa and Charlton Athletic welcoming Chelsea.
Sunday's highlights feature Derby County versus Leeds United, Portsmouth against Arsenal, and the heavyweight clash between Manchester United and Brighton & Hove Albion.
The round concludes with a Monday night fixture, as Liverpool play host to Barnsley.
This new era for the FA Cup promises high-stakes drama from the first whistle, knowing that every match must produce a winner, potentially from the penalty spot. Fans can expect a weekend of intense, decisive football as the famous old trophy begins its journey to a new home.
