FA Cup to be entirely free-to-air in UK

ITV has announced a broadcast deal to show the Emirates FA Cup from 2021.

This, combined with the BBC’s renewed contract signed in March, will mean that the competition will be shown exclusively on free-to-air television from 2021-25.  

ITV has, in effect, taken the broadcast spot that previously had been held by BT Sport.

Live coverage of more than 20 matches will be shown each season from 2021/22 through to 2024/25 on the PSB, and the deal also includes live coverage of The FA Community Shield each year.

Niall Sloane, ITV director of Sport, said: “We are delighted to be able to broadcast the FA Cup once again. We are particularly pleased that we shared The FA’s vision of a completely free-to-air competition and look forward to bringing new viewers all along the road to Wembley Stadium.”

Mark Bullingham, FA Chief Commercial & Football Development Officer, said: “The Emirates FA Cup continues to capture the public’s imagination, drawing millions of viewers at every stage. This agreement with ITV is fantastic news and means that we will reach the broadest possible audience across the country.

“ITV has been a great broadcast partner with the England Men’s Internationals and will do a brilliant job with the coverage of the world’s most historic cup competition.”