When is the FA Cup fourth round draw? Start time, ball numbers and how to watch

The article explains key details for fans ahead of the FA Cup fourth-round draw, which will determine the last‑32 ties of the 2025–26 competition. With Premier League and Championship clubs entering at the third round, excitement builds as big teams and underdogs await their next opponents.

The fourth-round draw is scheduled to take place on Monday 12 January 2026, ahead of the third‑round tie between Liverpool and Barnsley at Anfield, which kicks off in the evening. Broadcasters are expected to conduct the draw in the build‑up to that match, with a start time of around 6:45pm GMT mentioned, falling inside the pre‑match coverage window.

In terms of how to watch, the draw will be shown live on the UK host broadcaster’s main sports channel and its online streaming platform, allowing viewers to follow the ties as they are pulled from the hat. Coverage will form part of the build‑up show to Liverpool vs Barnsley, meaning fans can tune in via television or live stream on compatible devices.

The article notes that no ball numbers have yet been officially confirmed for the draw, as the third‑round ties are still to be completed. Sixty‑four teams are involved in the third round, and with no replays in this season’s FA Cup from the first round onwards, all fixtures will be decided on the day via extra time and penalties if required. That ensures the list of 32 teams for the fourth round will be finalised by the end of the weekend.

A brief reminder of the wider schedule is included: the fourth round is set for the weekend around Saturday 14 February 2026, with later stages—fifth round, quarter‑finals, semi‑finals and the Wembley final—following on subsequent weekends.