The Football Association has proposed radical changes to the Women's FA Cup, including seeding four teams and removing the traditional draw after the last 32. Instead, a 'road-to-Wembley bracket' would map out routes to the final from the last 32, similar to a World Cup format. These changes could take effect next season, though final plans remain unagreed.
The FA stated the revamp aims to evolve the competition, strengthen its commercial potential, and increase revenue for reinvestment into women's football. The seeding of the top four Women's Super League teams is a 'temporary adjustment' to ensure consistent high-quality matches in later rounds.
However, clubs and supporters have voiced strong opposition. Critics argue the changes would 'ruin the magic' of the competition and disproportionately benefit larger clubs, making the 'rich only richer'. Lower-league sides fear the seeding would reduce their chances of progressing to the later stages. A consultation process with clubs is ongoing, with a final submission to the FA board expected in April.
