Yorkshire to host FA Cup first-round draw in nod to city's part in its history

Bradford City will play host to this year's FA Cup first-round draw in recognition of the part the city has played in the competition's history, and because it will be 100 days until it becomes the UK's City of Culture.

The traditional FA Cup trophy was made by Fattorini and Sons of Bradford in 1911 and the Bantams were the first team to win it.

They beat Newcastle United 1-0 after a replay, and have not won the trophy since.

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Bradford's best run of recent times, beating Chelsea to reach the quarter-finals, was 10 seasons ago.

The silverware itself was replaced in 1992 for an exact replica of Fattorini’s iconic design to protect the original. A sturdier version was introduced in 2014.

At least six Yorkshire teams and up to 11 will be part of the first-round draw, which will be shown live on the BBC from 7pm on October 14.

As well as Bradford, Barnsley, Huddersfield Town, Rothehram United, Doncaster Rovers and Harrogate Town enter the competition at that stage.

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Farsley Celtic, Guiseley Town and Scarborough Athletic are all at the third qualifying round stage. They must beat Wythenshawe Town (away), Scunthorpe United (home) and Warrington Rylands (away) on September 28, then avoid defeat in one more tie in mid-October to be in the hat at Valley Parade.

BRADFORD MADE: The iconic FA Cup is based on a design manufactured in Bradford in 1911BRADFORD MADE: The iconic FA Cup is based on a design manufactured in Bradford in 1911
BRADFORD MADE: The iconic FA Cup is based on a design manufactured in Bradford in 1911

York City and Halifax Town will join at the fourth qualifying stage.

“In the lead up to next year’s UK City of Culture, we’re proud to be playing a part in one of the key moments of the sporting calendar coming to Bradford," said Shanaz Gulzar, creative director for Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture.

“The FA Cup is of real significance to our city, given the trophy was designed and manufactured in 1911 by Fattorini and Sons of Bradford, and we’re pleased to put the spotlight on Valley Parade, a place that means so much to the people of our district.”

The first-round ties take place on the first weekend of November.

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