The FA Cup quarter-final draw is fast approaching, marking a pivotal moment in this season's prestigious football competition. With the fifth-round fixtures now in full swing, anticipation is building for the next stage of the tournament.
When is the FA Cup quarter-final draw?
The draw is scheduled for Monday, March 9, adhering to the traditional practice of conducting it before the final match of the current round to heighten excitement for the upcoming phase.
Start time and TV channel
The draw will commence at approximately 7:05pm, preceding the final fifth-round tie between West Ham United and Brentford, which kicks off at 8pm. For UK audiences, the event will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1, as the primary rights holder for this round, featuring the draw as part of their Monday evening coverage.
How to watch online
Viewers on the move can access the draw through streaming alternatives via the discovery+ app and website. Subscribers can watch live on compatible mobile devices, tablets, or smart TVs, ensuring they don't miss any of the action. Additionally, a free-to-air live stream is typically available on the official YouTube channels of both TNT Sports Football and The Emirates FA Cup, allowing supporters without paid subscriptions to follow the draw in real-time alongside the televised broadcast.
Quarter-final match details
The quarter-final games are set for the weekend of Saturday, April 4, and Sunday, April 5. Last season saw two fixtures played on each day, with exact times and dates to be confirmed shortly after the draw.
Participants and prize money
Eight teams will be represented in the draw, consisting of the victors from the fifth-round ties. Since the draw occurs before the final match concludes on Monday night, one ball will denote 'West Ham United or Brentford'. Winners of the quarter-final ties will receive a substantial prize fund payment of £477,000, providing a significant financial boost, especially for clubs from lower divisions aiming to fund stadium upgrades or new signings.
Draw format
The draw is unseeded, meaning any of the remaining eight teams can be paired against each other. This lack of restrictions often leads to high-profile showdowns between Premier League sides, adding to the drama and unpredictability of the competition.
For those interested in watching the FA Cup, TNT Sports broadcasts select fixtures, including this draw, on their Prime Video channel. A monthly subscription also includes access to select Champions League, Europa League, and Premier League games, offering comprehensive football coverage for fans.
