The FA Cup has extended its partnership with Emirates by a further three seasons which will see the competition continue to be called the Emirates FA Cup until 2024.
Emirates became the title sponsor of the event in 2015, which gave the airline global and exclusive rights to its brand and properties. The partnership was later lengthened by three seasons in 2018 following a ‘highly successful’ period of collaboration.
Marzena Bogdanowicz, the FA’s Interim Head of Partnerships, commented: “Over the past six seasons, the combination of such a recognisable brand and the world’s most historic cup competition contributed towards significant investment back into football and allowed us to reach even more fans than ever before.
“Renewing this partnership as we emerge from a global pandemic is testament to our excellent working relationship and we look forward to the seasons ahead.”
The Cup involves over 700 competing clubs and 10,000 players across ten levels of English football, also including many fans both at home and abroad, which help boost the company’s position within its domestic and global markets.
Tim Clark, President of Emirates, noted: “As the most prestigious and historic football competition in the world, the Emirates FA Cup is renowned for creating iconic sporting moments and providing a platform for grassroots teams and Premier League giants alike, to shine on English football’s biggest stage.
“These are some of the many reasons why we remain incredibly proud of our long-standing partnership with The FA and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the tournament for a further three seasons.”
Around 100 million domestic viewers tuned in throughout the competition last season, with 9.5 million for the Final – which was broadcast in over 50 countries.
“As we look ahead to the 150th year of the tournament and beyond, we hope to connect even more fans to their favourite teams, both in the UK and across the world, so they too can experience the magic of the Emirates FA Cup,” added Clark.
As the BBC is joined by ITV as the host broadcasters for the 2021/22 season, more fans can watch the 150th anniversary season free-to-air.
The First Round Proper of the Emirates FA Cup’s 150th anniversary season will begin on Friday 5 November.