The Football Association (FA) has defended its decision to scrap replays for the FA Cup from the first round next season. The FA stated that the move was made in consultation with the Premier League and English Football League (EFL) with the aim of strengthening the competition and considering player welfare amidst a congested football calendar.
FA Cup replays have traditionally been a source of revenue for clubs in the lower leagues of English football. The decision to eliminate replays has been met with criticism, with the CEO of advocacy group Fair Game describing it as detrimental to the football pyramid. EFL chief executive Trevor Birch also expressed frustration and disappointment at the announcement.
However, the FA clarified that discussions regarding the calendar for the 2024-25 season had been ongoing for over a year with the Premier League and EFL. The removal of FA Cup replays was a topic of early discussion, and all parties agreed that the replays could not continue. The focus then shifted to enhancing the competitions despite having fewer available dates and prioritizing player welfare.
The calendar for the upcoming season was approved by the Professional Game Board, comprising representatives from the EFL and Premier League. The FA Board, which includes various football stakeholders, also endorsed the calendar. The FA emphasized that this approval process is conducted annually.
In response to concerns raised, the FA highlighted that additional revenue streams have been introduced for lower division teams. An increase in the number of Emirates FA Cup matches broadcast in the early rounds is expected to generate extra revenue for EFL and National League clubs.
The FA acknowledged the shared concerns following the initial announcement and pledged to provide further details to the affected clubs soon. Meanwhile, the FA Cup semifinals for this season are scheduled to take place over the weekend, with Manchester City facing Chelsea on Saturday and Coventry City playing against Manchester United on Sunday.
