March 12 – TNT Sports, the former BT Sports channel that is now owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, has struck a shared broadcast deal with the BBC for the English FA Cup.
The four-year deal will begin with the 2025-26 season and will see every game outside the 3pm kick-off televised for the first time.
TNT Sports won the primary rights to broadcast the FA Cup in a £264 million deal, but were mandated within to have a free-to-air partner. ITV and BBC currently share broadcast rights.
Under the new agreement both broadcasters will air FA Cup matches from the opening rounds, followed by a selection of quarter-final matches, a semi-final match each and both airing the final. The BBC is also expected to retain highlight rights.
Mark Bullingham, FA Chief Executive, said: “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.”
The FA Cup is the oldest football competition in the world and was first held in the 1871–1872 season. The BBC televised the 1938 final between Preston North End and Huddersfield Town for the first time, and has had broadcast every final since.
“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.”
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