What the competition is
Qualifying and the competition proper are related but not identical rule environments. The FA removed replays throughout the competition proper from 2024/25, while qualifying-round replays can still appear. A blanket statement that every FA Cup tie has, or has no, replay would therefore be misleading. Clubs enter at different stages, so the first round proper is not the first match played anywhere in that season’s competition.
Following the competition
Use the FA’s round calendar to distinguish an early qualifying weekend from a first-round-proper date. Save the home club and venue as well as the round: cup draws can pair teams that do not meet in a domestic league. If a result remains unresolved, check the rules for that stage rather than assuming a league-style draw ends the contest.
| Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Qualifying | Precedes the competition proper. |
| Entry | Clubs join at different stages. |
| Replays | Qualifying and competition-proper rules must be distinguished. |
| Progression | A knockout route determines who stays in the cup. |
Questions about this guide
Is the first round proper the start of all FA Cup football?
No. Several qualifying rounds take place beforehand.
Are replay rules identical in every round?
No. The distinction between qualifying and the competition proper matters.