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The 2026 Emirates FA Cup final will be broadcast free to air on BBC One with a traditional 3pm Saturday kick-off, the Football Association confirmed, as Manchester City, Southampton, Chelsea and Leeds United prepare for this weekend’s semi-finals at Wembley.
According to officials, the Wembley showpiece is scheduled for Saturday, May 16, more than a week before the Premier League season concludes. The BBC secured rights to 14 free-to-air FA Cup games this season under a four-year deal with TNT Sports, including one semi-final and the final, despite concerns that the competition would move exclusively to subscription television.
The FA Cup semi-finals begin at Wembley on Saturday when Manchester City face Championship side Southampton. City manager Pep Guardiola said Friday that midfielder Rodri will not be risked in the tie as he continues to recover from a groin injury, with the club unwilling to jeopardize his availability for upcoming Premier League matches.
Southampton reached the last four after knocking out Arsenal in the previous round, with forward Shea Charles scoring the winner against the Gunners. The Saints, who are unbeaten since January and pushing for a return to the Premier League, last reached an FA Cup final in 1976.
Chelsea meet Leeds United in Sunday’s semi-final at Wembley. The Blues enter the match under interim coach Calum McFarlane after sacking Liam Rosenior earlier this week amid a five-match losing streak in the Premier League. Former Chelsea captain Gary Cahill said the FA Cup is “a must to save the season” for the club. Leeds advanced to the semi-finals after defeating West Ham United on penalties and previously beat Birmingham in the fourth round.
The FA said the decision to retain a Saturday 3pm kick-off for the final was welcomed by supporters, with many noting the traditional slot “as it should be every year.” TNT Sports won the main rights to the competition from the 2025-26 season, but the BBC’s deal ensures key matches remain available to all viewers.
Mitre has revealed the official matchballs for both the men’s and women’s FA Cup semi-finals and finals. Details around ticketing and pre-match events are expected to be announced after this weekend’s semi-finals.
The winners of Saturday and Sunday’s ties will meet in the final at Wembley on May 16. The story is developing.
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