Howson to make historical past in Chelsea-Man Metropolis ultimate

Akil Howson will make historical past in subsequent month’s FA Cup ultimate between Chelsea and Manchester Metropolis, by which he’ll turn into the primary black official to characteristic within the showpiece.

Howson has been chosen as an assistant referee for the sport, which can happen at Wembley on Could 16.

He’ll function one of many two assistants to referee Darren England, the opposite being Tim Wooden.

Sam Barrott is the fourth official, with VAR duties assumed by Peter Bankes, who will obtain help from Nick Hopton.

Competing of their fourth successive FA Cup ultimate, Metropolis are aiming to win the competitors for an eighth time, having final carried out so in 2023. They misplaced the ultimate to Manchester United in 2024 and to Crystal Palace final 12 months.

Chelsea are already eight-time winners, their final triumph coming again in 2018. The Blues misplaced three successive finals from 2020 to 2022.

A 2-1 win over Southampton noticed Metropolis into the ultimate, whereas Chelsea beat Leeds United 1-0. Will probably be the primary time the 2 groups have met in an FA Cup ultimate.

What time is the FA Cup ultimate 2026?

The FA have introduced that this season’s ultimate, which will likely be held on Saturday, Could 16 2026, will kick off at 15:00 BST, which is 10:00 ET and 07:00 PT.

The place to observe the 2025/26 FA Cup ultimate: TV channel

The FA Cup ultimate will likely be proven dwell on BBC One, TNT Sports activities and HBO Max.

2026 FA Cup ultimate dwell stream: Learn how to watch on-line

Within the UK, followers can stream the motion through the BBC Sport web site and BBC iPlayer app. TNT Sports activities and HBO Max may be streamed by way of the HBO Max app.

TNT Sports activities subscriptions begin at £30.99 together with Eurosport and leisure. Each apps can be found on an unlimited vary of gadgets together with sensible TVs and gaming consoles.