VAR won’t be used in the 3rd and 4th rounds of the FA Cup

Teams could use the technology for the first time

It has been agreed that VAR will be utilised for every match in the Fifth Round of the competition through to the Final at Wembley Stadium, and will not be in operation for the Third and Fourth Rounds.

This differs from previous years when VAR has only been used in the Emirates FA Cup previously for matches at Wembley Stadium and at Premier League grounds due to the infrastructure, workforce and costs that are required for its operation.

This decision has been taken to ensure that there is a consistent refereeing approach for all clubs taking part in the same stage of the competition.

VAR was first used in the FA Cup since 2018 when it was available for matches played at Premier League grounds and Wembley.

The change could see a host of clubs using the technology for the very first time.

The FA Cup third round games are set to take place between January 9 and 13, 2025.

The third round sees the Premier League teams and Championship sides enter the competition with the current holders, Manchester United beginning their defence of the trophy with a trip to London to face Arsenal.

Elsewhere, there is just one other all Premier League tie as West Ham travel to Aston Villa.

Current Premier League champions Manchester City host League Two side Salford at the Etihad while League leaders Liverpool host Accrington.

Non-league outfit Tamworth have reached the third round for the very first time since 2012.

Tamworth, who are the lowest ranked side left in the competition, will host Tottenham at their 4,963-capacity Lamb Ground.

Several clubs across the Championship, League One and League Two could also have VAR in use for the first time should they progress as far as the fifth round.