When is the FA Cup third-round draw? Date, time, groups certified and how you can watch on TV
The FA Cup intensifies with the insertion of the 44 sides in the top two English tiers into the hat with the third round draw set to be made.
The Premier League and Championship clubs join those that have navigated their way through the rounds to reach this stage.
Plenty will now be eyeing a plum tie and, perhaps, a famous cup day as they continue to travel the winding road to Wembley.
Holders Manchester United are among those who eager eyes will be watching closely after a mixed start under Ruben Amorim.
Here’s everything you need to know.
When is the FA Cup third-round draw?
The draw for the third round proper of the FA Cup will be held from 7pm GMT on Monday 2 December.
How can I watch the FA Cup third-round draw?
BBC Two will show the FA Cup draw from 7pm GMT. A live stream will be available via the BBC iPlayer and Independent Sport will have a live blog to give you all the ties and reaction.
If you want to stream major sporting events while you are travelling or watching from abroad you’ll need a VPN. Get the best VPN deals in the UK. Viewers using a VPN need to make sure that they comply with any local regulations where they are, and also with the terms of their service provider.
Which teams have qualified?
Alongside the 44 Premier League and Championship teams entering the draw at this stage, the following lower-league teams have booked their spots during this weekend’s second-round matches:
- Harrogate
- Wycombe
- Mansfield
- Morecambe
- Exeter
- Stockport
- Peterborough
- Salford
- Lincoln
- Charlton
- Leyton Orient
- Accrington Stanley
- Wigan
- Bristol Rovers
FA Cup third-round draw ball numbers
Ball numbers will be confirmed ahead of the draw on Monday.
When will the ties be played?
The third round ties will be played between Friday 10 January 2025 and Monday 13 January 2025.
The main dates for the remaining rounds are as follows:
Third Round Proper: Saturday 11 January 2025
Fourth Round Proper: Saturday 8 February 2025
Fifth Round Proper: Saturday 1 March 2025
Quarter Final: Saturday 29 March 2025
Semi Final – Saturday 26 April 2025
Final: Saturday 17 May 2025