FA Cup replays have been scrapped from the first round proper as part of sweeping changes to the competition.
The current format, which involves no replays from the fifth round onwards, has been extended to the entire ‘competition proper’ in light of changes to the calendar brought about by the expansion of UEFA competitions.
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The changes, which also include all rounds played on weekends and a rescheduled final before the end of the Premier League season, will come into effect from next season and last for a minimum of six seasons.
The Premier League has also agreed to pay up to £33 million more for grassroots football.
FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham said: “The Emirates FA Cup is our greatest asset and generates over 60 per cent of our revenue to invest in the game. It is therefore essential to ensure a strong format for the future.
“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 schedule.
“The new schedule ensures that the magic of the Cup is protected and enhanced, while working for the whole of the English game. The longer summer period also allows players to take a well-deserved break before the start of next season.
“We have also agreed new funding for grassroots football, disability football and women’s and women’s football. All football starts at grassroots level, and this is recognized by the Premier League with much-welcomed additional financial support. “
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters added: “The Premier League is proud of the investment it provides at all levels of the game and this new agreement with the FA will see us strengthen our support for grassroots football This will improve facilities for communities and lower league clubs across the country, through the Football Foundation and the Premier League Stadium Fund.
“Throughout our discussions, both parties are committed to improving the schedule for the Emirates FA Cup, a hugely important domestic competition with a rich history.
“The FA and Premier League have worked in partnership to deliver more exclusive weekends without compromising the excitement of knockout football and this has been achieved at the same time as allowing us to reduce congestion at matches by general.”
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Replays have been a huge source of funding and publicity for clubs lower down the English pyramid in recent years.
As well as revenue from TV coverage, teams in the lower tiers of the EFL and non-league receive a share of ticket sales revenue from trips to England’s biggest football clubs – which can go a long way to preserve their future.
With replays now set to be removed from the first round proper, iclubs will now have a significantly lower opportunity to thrive through such ties, dealing a blow to those who stand to benefit the most.
