The 2026 FA Cup Final will crown the 155th champion of football's oldest national competition. Manchester City and Chelsea meet at the iconic Wembley Stadium in a clash between two of England's modern powerhouses.
The "Home of Football" with its 90,000 capacity will host another chapter in FA Cup history. The iconic arch and hallowed turf have witnessed countless magical moments since 1923.
Following Leicester City's fairytale victory in 2021, the 2026 final promises another memorable chapter in FA Cup folklore
Saturday, May 16, 2026 • Wembley Stadium, London • 90,000 capacity • 155th FA Cup Final
Every FA Cup winner from 1872-2026 with scores, locations, and memorable moments
The evolution of football's oldest national competition through distinct periods of development and change
Established football as England's national sport and created the template for knockout competitions
The birth of football's oldest national competition. Gentlemen amateurs from public schools and universities dominated the early years, establishing traditions that endure today.
Professionalism transformed the competition and football became working-class entertainment
The rise of professional football saw northern industrial clubs challenge southern amateurs. This era witnessed the birth of famous clubs and the move to larger venues.
Created the modern FA Cup Final as a national sporting occasion
The move to Wembley Stadium created modern FA Cup tradition. From the White Horse Final to television coverage, this era saw the Cup become a national institution.
Balanced tradition with modern football while preserving the cup's unique magic
The Premier League era brought increased commercialization while maintaining FA Cup tradition. Big clubs dominated but giant killings remained possible, with modern Wembley hosting from 2007.
Everything you need to know about the FA Cup, its history, records, and the upcoming 2026 final
The FA Cup began in 1871-72 as the Football Association Challenge Cup. The first final was held at The Oval in 1872, with Wanderers defeating Royal Engineers 1-0. It is the world's oldest national football competition.
Arsenal holds the record with 14 FA Cup victories, followed by Manchester United with 12. Chelsea has 8 wins, while Tottenham, Liverpool and Aston Villa each have 7 FA Cup titles.
Wimbledon's 1-0 victory over Liverpool in 1988 is considered the greatest FA Cup upset. Other legendary giant killings include Wigan Athletic beating Manchester City in 2013 and non-league Hereford United defeating Newcastle United in 1972.
The 2026 FA Cup Final will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Wembley Stadium in London. Manchester City will face Chelsea in the 155th FA Cup Final, with kickoff at 3:00 PM BST.
This will be the first FA Cup Final meeting between Manchester City and Chelsea. Both clubs have rich FA Cup histories, with City winning 6 times (most recently 2023) and Chelsea claiming 8 victories (most recently 2018).
Wembley has hosted the FA Cup Final since 1923, earning it the nickname "The Home of Football." The famous Twin Towers (1923-2000) and now the iconic arch make Wembley synonymous with English football's greatest moments.
FA Cup Final tickets are allocated through official club allocations, The FA's public ballot, and authorized ticket agencies. Prices typically range from £45 to £250+ depending on seating category and demand.