The FA Cup is one of the most iconic soccer competitions—not just in England, but across the world.
Founded way back in 1871, it holds the distinction of being the oldest soccer tournament in the history of the sport. What sets it apart, however, is its inclusivity: clubs from almost every level of the English soccer pyramid compete, from Premier League giants to non-league minnows.
This unique format has given rise to the beloved phenomenon of “giant killings”—those unforgettable moments when underdog teams topple far more illustrious opponents (we're looking at you, Portsmouths and Herefords of the world).
From round to round, the FA Cup delivers drama, unpredictability, and charm. After all, what’s more entertaining than watching a team of multi-millionaire stars battle part-timers on a muddy pitch tucked away behind a housing estate? It’s soccer heritage at its finest.
Of course, as in most competitions, the biggest and best clubs tend to dominate in the long run. So with that in mind, we’ve put together a complete list of FA Cup winners—along with a look at the most successful clubs in the tournament’s storied history.
