The 2026-27 FA Cup reaches its first-round stage tonight, Monday, October 19, as clubs from League One and League Two enter the fray. The draw is set to commence at around 6:35pm BST, with television coverage beginning five minutes earlier.
A total of 80 teams will be in the hat, comprising 32 non-league sides who have navigated the qualifying rounds, alongside 48 teams from the EFL's League One and League Two. Notable former FA Cup winners such as Leicester City, Wigan Athletic, Sheffield Wednesday, and Huddersfield Town are among the professional clubs.
This year's first round also marks a historic moment for four teams making their debut in the proper competition. Eighth-tier AFC Rushden & Diamonds, seventh-tier Berkhamsted, Sholing, and Plymouth Parkway are all set for their first appearance. Ninth-tier Tadley Calleva are the lowest-ranked team to reach this stage, having secured a replay against National League side Aldershot.
The draw will be hosted by Matt Smith, with Martin Keown and Fara Williams conducting the proceedings. Fans can watch the event live on TNT Sports 1, HBO Max, and the TNT Sports YouTube channel.