FA Cup Fifth Round Draw: All Essential Information for Fans
The excitement of the FA Cup continues to build as the competition progresses towards its latter stages. With the fourth round matches concluding, attention now turns to the highly anticipated fifth round draw. Clubs from the Premier League, Championship, and lower divisions are all vying for a coveted spot at Wembley Stadium, dreaming of cup glory.
Draw Date and Time: Mark Your Calendars
The FA Cup fifth round draw is officially scheduled for Monday, February 16, 2026. This event will occur just before the final fourth round tie, adding to the evening's football festivities. Coverage of the draw will begin at 6:30pm GMT, with the actual draw process expected to start around 6:35pm GMT. Fans should tune in promptly to catch all the action as it unfolds live.
Venue: A Nod to Cup Magic
In a charming tribute to the magic of the FA Cup, the draw will be held at Moss Rose, the home ground of non-league side Macclesfield. This venue choice highlights Macclesfield's remarkable journey as the lowest-ranked team still in the competition. The draw precedes their match against Brentford, creating a unique and memorable setting for this key event in the football calendar.
TV Channel and Streaming Options
For viewers in the United Kingdom, the draw will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1. Additionally, it will be available for free streaming on the official TNT Sports YouTube channel and through the discovery+ app. This ensures that fans can watch from various devices, whether at home or on the go, without missing a moment of the draw.
Presenters and Special Guests
The draw will be hosted by familiar faces in football broadcasting: Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist. Adding to the star power, former England internationals Joe Cole and Karen Carney will have the honor of drawing the balls from the bag. Their involvement brings a touch of expertise and excitement to the proceedings, connecting past legends with current cup aspirations.
Context and Upcoming Matches
The draw takes place during the pre-match coverage for the final fourth round tie between Macclesfield and Brentford, which kicks off at 7:30pm GMT on the same evening. Looking ahead, the fifth round matches are set to be played across the weekend of Saturday, March 7, 2026. Fixtures are likely to be spread from Friday to Monday to accommodate television broadcasting schedules, ensuring maximum viewership for these crucial encounters.
As teams prepare for the next stage, fans can look forward to more thrilling football action in one of England's most beloved competitions. Stay tuned for updates and enjoy the drama of the FA Cup unfold.
