The FA Cup third-round draw is just around the corner, and excitement is brewing among football fans across the UK. Scheduled for December 8, 2025, at approximately 6:45 PM GMT, this highly anticipated event will set the stage for thrilling third round matches in the world’s oldest football knockout competition. As teams await their fate, the FA Cup schedule promises an exhilarating weekend of action starting January 10, 2026. Fans eager to catch the FA Cup draw live can tune into TNT Sports 1 or stream it on Discovery+, ensuring they don’t miss any crucial moments. With various matchups expected, the FA Cup draw date is a pivotal point in the competition, bringing together clubs from all tiers, including Premier League and Championship teams alongside hopeful lower league contenders.
As the FA Cup approaches its thrilling third-round phase, anticipation builds for the pivotal draw that determines matchups among teams. This momentous occasion not only marks the entry of top-tier clubs but also highlights the inclusion of underdogs ready to challenge for glory. Fans should mark their calendars for this exciting event, as it promises to unveil a weekend packed with unforgettable encounters beginning January 10, 2026. Viewers can enjoy comprehensive FA Cup TV coverage on TNT Sports 1 or explore FA Cup live streaming options available online. The stage is set for captivating football action, reminding us of the tournament’s rich history and its role in uniting fans across the nation.
When is the FA Cup Third-Round Draw?
The FA Cup third-round draw is a highly anticipated event in the football calendar, where the fate of the participating teams is decided. Scheduled for Monday, December 8, 2025, the draw will take place shortly before the televised second-round match featuring Brackley Town versus Burton Albion. Fans will want to tune in at around 6:45 PM GMT, as the excitement builds up towards the announcement of the matchups. This timing ensures that everyone is engaged and ready as the draw unfolds just before kick-off.
Television coverage for this exciting event will be provided by TNT Sports 1, which holds the broadcasting rights for the FA Cup draw. Viewers can expect a full breakdown of teams and fixtures as they are drawn live on air. For those who cannot access traditional TV coverage, there will also be options for free live streaming on platforms like Discovery+ and the official FA Cup social media accounts, making it easier for fans to catch all the action as it happens.
Overview of the FA Cup Third Round Matches
The FA Cup third-round matches are set to take place on the weekend of January 10, 2026, marking a thrilling phase of competition for teams across the UK. This round welcomes clubs from both the Premier League and Championship, as all 20 Premier League teams and 24 Championship sides enter the competition. Including clubs from lower divisions adds an exciting element, with at least two sixth-tier teams earning a place, creating potential for shocking upsets against higher-ranked opponents.
Matches will spread across the weekend due to TV scheduling requirements, making it an engaging time for football enthusiasts. With teams from various tiers competing, fans can look forward to exhilarating matchups, which will not only feature the best clubs in the country but also allow lower-tier teams the chance to make their mark on this prestigious tournament. The variety in fixtures leads to unpredictable outcomes, which is one of the charms of the FA Cup.
FA Cup Schedule and Fixture Excitement Ahead of Third Round Matches
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the FA Cup third-round draw taking place?
The FA Cup third-round draw is scheduled for Monday, December 8, 2025, at approximately 6:45 PM GMT, just before the televised match of Brackley Town vs. Burton Albion.
What time does the FA Cup third-round draw start?
The start time for the FA Cup third-round draw is around 6:45 PM GMT, with the actual draw expected to occur just before the kickoff of the match at 7:30 PM.
Where can I watch the FA Cup third-round draw live?
Fans can watch the FA Cup third-round draw live on TNT Sports 1. Additionally, it will be streamed online via Discovery+ and on the official FA Cup social media channels.
What is the schedule for the FA Cup third-round matches?
The FA Cup third-round matches are set to be played over the weekend of January 10, 2026, spanning from Thursday to Monday due to broadcasting arrangements.
Who participates in the FA Cup third-round draw?
The FA Cup third-round draw includes all 20 Premier League clubs, 24 Championship clubs, and at least two sixth-tier teams from the earlier rounds.
How can I stream the FA Cup third-round draw online?
The FA Cup third-round draw can be streamed live on Discovery+, as well as through the FA Cup’s official social media platforms and YouTube channel.
What teams are entering the FA Cup third round?
In the FA Cup third round, 20 Premier League teams and 24 Championship teams along with a few sixth-tier teams will enter the draw, bringing excitement in the competition’s oldest format.
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| FA Cup Third-Round Draw Date | Monday, December 8, 2025 |
| Time of the Draw | Approximately 6:45 PM GMT |
| Broadcasting Channel (UK) | TNT Sports 1 |
| Streaming Options (UK) | Discovery+, official FA Cup social media, and YouTube channels |
| First Round Match Participation | 20 Premier League and 24 Championship clubs, plus at least two sixth-tier teams |
| Third-Round Matches Date | Weekend of January 10, 2026 |
Summary
The FA Cup third-round draw is an exciting event for football fans, set to occur on December 8, 2025. This draw marks a crucial moment in the tournament as it determines the matchups for the prestigious third round, where top teams from the Premier League and Championship enter the competition. Fans can look forward to watching it live on TNT Sports 1 and streaming it through various platforms, ensuring that they don’t miss any of the action leading up to the thrilling fixtures scheduled for January 10, 2026.
