New Wembley to host FA Cup final

The new Wembley Stadium will host this year's FA Cup final, the Football Association has confirmed.

Seven years after the last match was held at the stadium's old incarnation, the 90 000-capacity venue will stage the FA's flagship competition on 19 May.

The confirmation comes after Brent council granted Wembley the required general safety certificate following the successful completion of two test events.


Last week England's under-21s drew 3-3 with their Italian counterparts in the first-official match at the new Wembley, with a community event held the previous week.

FA chief executive Brian Barwick described today's announcement as 'great news for football fans in the country and indeed the world over'.

'The cup final and Wembley Stadium go hand in hand and everybody at the FA is looking forward to a great day,' he added.

Brent council's chief executive Gareth Daniel said he was 'delighted' to bring back 'world-class music and sporting events to Wembley'.

If Manchester United and Chelsea dispense of their respective semi-final opponents, Watford and Blackburn, as expected, the FA could be given the dream cup final.