FA Cup 5th Round Draw: Date, Time, How to Watch Live on TV & Stream

FA Cup 5th Round Draw: Date, Time, How to Watch Live on TV & Stream

The Emirates FA Cup, a competition steeped in history and renowned for its "magic," is gearing up for another thrilling installment. As the dust settles on the Fourth Round, football fans eagerly anticipate the moment their club's fate is decided in the draw for the Fifth Round. This stage often separates the contenders from the hopefuls, bringing the iconic Wembley arch ever closer into view. With giant-killings and dramatic upsets already making headlines this season, the Fifth Round draw promises to be just as captivating as the matches themselves. From Premier League heavyweights to lower league dark horses, every team dreams of progressing further in the world's oldest national football competition. For the 2025/26 season, the FA Cup has once again delivered its customary dose of drama. We've seen defending champions Crystal Palace, who lifted their first major trophy last season, suffer an astonishing exit at the hands of non-league Macclesfield in the Third Round – a testament to the unpredictable nature of this tournament. Similarly, other big names like Manchester United and Tottenham have already been dumped out, leaving the path open for new narratives to unfold. With 32 teams being whittled down to a final 16, every draw is a pivotal moment, and this guide provides everything you need to know about the upcoming FA Cup Fifth Round draw.

When is the FA Cup 5th Round Draw? Date, Time, & Location

Mark your calendars, football aficionados! The Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round draw is scheduled to take place on Monday, February 16, 2026. This highly anticipated event will unfold live from a rather unique and fitting location: Macclesfield, ahead of their Fourth Round match against Brentford. The decision to host the draw from Macclesfield adds an extra layer of narrative, especially given their incredible journey in the competition so far, including their stunning victory over reigning champions Crystal Palace. Fans across the UK will want to tune in for the pre-match coverage of the Macclesfield vs. Brentford tie, as the draw is set to commence at approximately 6:35 PM GMT. For those following in the United States, that translates to a 1:35 PM ET start time. Timing is key to catch all the live action and learn your club's next opponent as it happens. The atmosphere at Macclesfield, combined with the anticipation of the draw, promises to create a truly memorable evening for supporters, highlighting the grassroots connection that remains a core part of the FA Cup's appeal.

Where To Watch Fa Cup Draw Live: TV Channels & Streaming Options

Knowing where to watch FA Cup draw live is crucial for any dedicated fan, and fortunately, there are multiple avenues available for both UK and US audiences. Ensuring you're tuned in at the right time will let you experience the drama unfold in real-time.

For Viewers in the UK:

In the United Kingdom, the Fifth Round draw will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1. This is your primary destination for televised coverage. Beyond traditional TV, fans have excellent streaming options to ensure they don't miss a moment. The draw will also be available for live streaming via discovery+, TNT Sports' streaming platform. For those who prefer a more accessible and often free option, the TNT Sports YouTube channel will be providing a live stream of the draw during their pre-match build-up for the Macclesfield vs. Brentford game. This means you can catch all the excitement on your preferred device, whether you're at home or on the go. Tuning in early for the pre-match coverage is highly recommended to ensure you don't miss the exact start of the draw segment, which kicks off around 6:35 PM GMT. For even more detailed information on broadcast options, check out our guide on FA Cup Fifth Round Draw: Full Details, TV Channels & Live Stream Options.

For Viewers in the USA:

For fans stateside wondering where to watch FA Cup draw, ESPN holds the exclusive broadcast rights for the 2025/26 FA Cup season. This means that select matches, and often the draws, will be available across the ESPN family of channels. You can catch the draw live on TV channels such as ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN Deportes (for Spanish-language coverage). However, the most comprehensive way to follow the FA Cup in the USA is through ESPN+. Every single match in the competition is streamed on ESPN+, making it an essential subscription for any ardent follower of English football. To catch the draw live via streaming: 1. Download the new ESPN app on your smart TV, phone, or tablet. 2. Sign in with your ESPN account. 3. Tap "Subscribe to ESPN Select" (if you don't already have an ESPN+ subscription). This will give you access to live sports, originals, and much more. New users to ESPN's family of channels may also be eligible for a free trial, offering a fantastic opportunity to watch the draw and potentially a host of other sporting events without immediate cost. Don't forget to visit our dedicated resource for US viewers: FA Cup Draw USA: How to Watch Live & Stream Every Match on ESPN+ for further guidance.

Who is Making the Draw? Presenters & Draw Masters

The FA Cup draw isn't just about the teams; it's also about the personalities who pull the balls, adding to the spectacle. For the Fifth Round draw, fans can look forward to a blend of experienced broadcasting talent and footballing legends. The event will be expertly presented by the familiar voices of Darren Fletcher and former Scotland international and popular pundit, Ally McCoist. Their dynamic rapport and deep knowledge of the game will ensure an engaging experience for viewers. The crucial task of actually drawing the balls from the pot will be handled by two respected figures from the world of football: Joe Cole and Karen Carney. Joe Cole, a former England international, enjoyed a glittering career with clubs like West Ham United, Chelsea, and Liverpool, known for his flair and technical ability. His insights as a player who reached FA Cup finals will bring an authentic touch to the proceedings. Karen Carney MBE, a highly decorated former England international, has played for clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea, winning numerous domestic and international accolades. Post-retirement, she has become a prominent and insightful pundit, making her an excellent choice to help shape the next stage of the competition. Their presence guarantees a draw led by individuals with genuine FA Cup pedigree, adding a layer of excitement and credibility to the event.

FA Cup 5th Round Draw Ball Numbers: Who's In?

The excitement of the FA Cup draw often hinges on the potential matchups – dream ties for lower league sides, or challenging encounters for the big boys. With 32 teams battling it out in the Fourth Round, a final 16 will emerge, each represented by a numbered ball. As teams progress, the quality naturally increases, but the possibility of a "giant killing" remains a cornerstone of the FA Cup's allure. Here's a look at some of the teams, confirmed and potential, who will be eagerly awaiting their fate in the Fifth Round draw: * 1. Liverpool * 2. Fulham * 3. Sunderland * 4. Southampton * 5. Wrexham * 6. Arsenal * 7. Chelsea * 8. West Ham United * 9. Mansfield Town * 10. Norwich City * 11. Port Vale or Bristol City (Result pending) * 12. Wolverhampton Wanderers * 13. Newcastle United * 14. Manchester City * 15. Macclesfield or Brentford (Result pending – the match preceding the draw!) * 16. Leeds United Noticeable by their absence are early casualties like Manchester United and Tottenham, both unexpectedly ousted in the previous rounds. This emphasizes the wide-open nature of the competition this season and the increased chances for other teams to make a deep run. The presence of non-league Wrexham, alongside lower league teams like Mansfield Town, highlights the dream scenarios that the FA Cup provides. Imagine Wrexham drawing a Premier League giant like Liverpool or Manchester City – these are the fixtures that truly ignite the passion of the tournament and generate enormous revenue and exposure for smaller clubs. The two pending ties, Port Vale/Bristol City and the draw-hosting Macclesfield/Brentford match, add further suspense, as their identities won't be fully known until just before or during the draw itself. Each ball holds the key to a club's aspirations, be it a lucrative home tie or a challenging away day at a top-tier stadium.

When Will the FA Cup 5th Round Matches Be Played?

Once the balls have been drawn and the matchups revealed, attention will immediately turn to the actual Fifth Round fixtures. The Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round proper is scheduled to be played around the weekend of Saturday, March 7 and Sunday, March 8, 2026. This timeframe allows teams a brief period to prepare for their next challenge in the competition. For clubs still competing in multiple tournaments – such as the Premier League, Championship, and European competitions – navigating this fixture congestion can be a significant challenge. Managers will need to carefully consider squad rotation, fitness levels, and tactical approaches to ensure their teams are at their best. For lower league clubs, these dates become the biggest games of their season, offering a chance to make history and create lasting memories for their fans. The excitement generated by the draw will carry through to these match days, promising another weekend filled with the unique drama and passion that only the FA Cup can deliver.

Conclusion

The FA Cup Fifth Round draw is more than just an administrative procedure; it's a pivotal moment in the competition that shapes dreams, ignites rivalries, and sets the stage for future drama. From the historic setting in Macclesfield to the footballing legends making the draw, every element contributes to the unique allure of this tournament. Whether you're a devoted fan in the UK tuning into TNT Sports or a US follower catching every moment on ESPN+, ensure you know where to watch FA Cup draw live on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 6:35 PM GMT / 1:35 PM ET. The road to Wembley continues, and the next chapter is about to be written. Don't miss a second of the excitement as the fate of 16 teams is decided, bringing us one step closer to crowning the next FA Cup champions.