The FA Cup, one of football’s most storied competitions, reaches its climax on Saturday, May 17, 2025, with the 144th final at Wembley Stadium. This year’s showdown pits Manchester City against Crystal Palace, a matchup that promises drama, passion, and the chance to etch a new chapter in the tournament’s rich history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, here’s everything you need to know about how to catch the action, when it kicks off, where to watch, and some savvy betting tips to enhance your experience.
How to watch
The 2025 FA Cup Final is a global event, and broadcasters worldwide are gearing up to bring the Wembley spectacle to your screens. In the United Kingdom, fans are spoiled for choice with free-to-air options. The match will be broadcast live on BBC One, with coverage typically starting around 4:00 PM GMT, offering pre-match analysis, player interviews, and the electric build-up from Wembley. ITV1 will also air the game simultaneously, with its own punditry team providing insights, alongside ITVX for streaming. For those in Scotland, STV and STV Player will carry the same feed. Both BBC iPlayer and ITVX offer seamless streaming options, allowing you to watch on smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs, provided you have a valid TV license.
In the United States, ESPN+ holds exclusive rights to the FA Cup, including the final. The streaming service has been the go-to platform for all 79 FA Cup matches this season, from the first round to the showpiece event. ESPN+ subscribers can access the game live, with kick-off set for 11:30 AM ET. The platform’s comprehensive coverage often includes English-language commentary and post-match breakdowns, making it a must-have for American soccer fans. Unfortunately, the match won’t air on traditional cable TV in the US, so a subscription to ESPN+ is essential.
For viewers elsewhere, the FA Cup’s global broadcast partners ensure wide accessibility. In Europe, countries like Germany and France often see FA Cup matches on channels like DAZN or beIN Sports, though specific listings for the final should be checked closer to the date. In Asia, broadcasters such as Sony Sports Network in India or beIN Sports in the Middle East typically cover the event. Australian fans can look to Paramount+ or Network 10, while African viewers may find the game on SuperSport. The FA’s official website provides a detailed list of international broadcasters, so fans worldwide can confirm local options.
Kick off time
The 2025 FA Cup Final is scheduled for Saturday, May 17, at Wembley Stadium, with a confirmed kick-off time of 4:30 PM BST (British Summer Time). This timing is a departure from the traditional 3:00 PM slot and even later 5:30 PM starts in recent years. The 4:30 PM kick-off was chosen after consultations with the competing teams, broadcasters, police, and local authorities, balancing fan travel logistics with the desire to avoid clashing with another major event—Eurovision, which airs later that evening. This compromise ensures fans can enjoy both the football and the musical extravaganza without overlap.
For international viewers, the kick-off translates to 11:30 AM ET in the United States, 12:30 PM BRT in Brazil, 5:30 PM CET in central Europe, and 12:30 AM JST on Sunday, May 18, in Japan. The slightly later start benefits European audiences with a prime late-afternoon slot, while American fans get a convenient late-morning window. However, fans in Asia and the Pacific may face a late-night or early-morning viewing, adding to the dedication required to catch the live action.
TV channels
As noted, UK viewers have multiple free-to-air options for the final. BBC One and ITV1 will both broadcast the match live, with additional coverage on BBC iPlayer, ITVX, STV, and STV Player. These channels are accessible to anyone with a TV license, making the FA Cup Final one of the few major sporting events still widely available without a subscription. BBC One’s coverage, often led by Gary Lineker and a rotating panel of former players, emphasizes tradition and storytelling, while ITV1’s team, frequently featuring Ian Wright or Roy Keane, leans into tactical analysis and lively debate.
In the US, ESPN+ is the sole destination, continuing its multi-year deal with the FA Cup, which runs through 2028. The streaming service offers high-definition coverage and the flexibility to watch on-demand if you miss the live broadcast. For other regions, TV channels vary. In Canada, Sportsnet typically carries FA Cup matches, while in Australia, Network 10 or Paramount+ may air the final. In India, Sony Sports Network is a likely candidate, and in the Middle East, beIN Sports holds rights. Fans should check local listings or the FA’s website for confirmed channels, as some regions may see last-minute broadcast deals.
Radio coverage is another excellent option, particularly for UK fans. TalkSPORT will provide live commentary, capturing the atmosphere at Wembley with its signature high-energy style. The broadcast, available on FM, DAB, and online, starts well before kick-off and includes post-match reactions, perfect for those on the move or unable to watch on TV.
Betting tips
The 2025 FA Cup Final between Manchester City and Crystal Palace offers intriguing betting opportunities, with the former entering as heavy favorites and the latter poised as potential underdogs. Manchester City, managed by Pep Guardiola, have dominated English football, boasting a star-studded squad with players like Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne. Their attacking prowess and tactical discipline make them a safe bet for the outright win, with bookmakers likely offering short odds, potentially around 1.30 to 1.50 for a City victory in 90 minutes. However, Crystal Palace, under their astute manager, have shown resilience and flair, particularly in cup competitions, and could spring a surprise. Betting on Palace to win at odds of 6.00 or higher might appeal to risk-takers, especially given their knack for upsetting bigger teams.
For more nuanced bets, consider the goal markets. Manchester City’s games often feature high-scoring affairs, and with Haaland leading the line, over 2.5 goals in the match could be a solid pick, typically priced around 1.80. Conversely, Palace’s disciplined defense might keep things tighter, making under 2.5 goals (around 2.00) a viable alternative if you expect a cagey final. Both teams to score is another market to explore, as Palace have the attacking talent to nick a goal, and City’s defense has shown occasional vulnerabilities. This bet often sits at 1.90 to 2.10 odds.
Player-specific bets add excitement. Haaland is a prime candidate for first goalscorer, with odds likely around 3.50, given his prolific form. For Palace, keep an eye on their key attackers, whose odds for scoring anytime could offer value at 3.00 or more. If you’re looking for a long shot, betting on a Palace player to score and City to win (a scorecast) could yield high returns, though it’s a speculative punt.
Finally, consider in-play betting. Finals can start cautiously, with teams feeling each other out, so waiting for the first 15-20 minutes to place bets on the next goal or match outcome can provide better odds. Always check reputable bookmakers like Bet365 or William Hill for the latest odds and promotions, and ensure you gamble responsibly, sticking to a budget.