The FA has confirmed that there will no longer be replays from the first round of the FA Cup.
The expansion of UEFA competitions such as the Champions League has forced the FA to explore changes to its own calendar to protect players and avoid any drop in the quality of its domestic cups.
The start of next season will be a format that will continue for at least six years, with one of the highlights being the elimination of first round replays.
All matches will be played on weekends, rather than midweek, and the fourth and fifth rounds will be played excluding Premier League matches to avoid pending games or a build-up of matches later.
The Premier League has also increased its funding into the football pyramid by €37 million a year to help clubs in both the men's and women's systems develop.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said: “The Emirates FA Cup is our greatest asset, generating over 60% of our revenue to invest in the game, so securing a strong format for the future is vital.
“This new agreement between the FA and the Premier League strengthens the Emirates FA Cup and gives this very special tournament exclusive weekends in an increasingly busy calendar.
“The new calendar ensures that the magic of the Cup is protected and enhanced, while also working for all of English football. The longer summer period also allows for a much-needed rest for players before the start of the next season.
“We have also agreed new funding for grassroots football, disability football and women's and girls' football. All football starts at grassroots football, and this is recognized by the Premier League with much welcome additional financial support.”
#Cup #eliminate #replays #part #significant #calendar #change
