🏆 The day has arrived! Good luck to Darren and his team as they take charge of this afternoon's #EmiratesFACupFinal between Chelsea and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium.
Enjoy your day, team!
154 years of history. One groundbreaking appointment. 🏆
Akil Howson will today become the first Black match official appointed to an Emirates FA Cup final.
From grassroots football in Leicestershire to the national stadium, Akil’s journey reflects years of dedication, resilience and excellence within the game.
Inspired by pioneering officials like Uriah Rennie, tomorrow’s appointment is not only a personal milestone for Akil and his family, but an important moment for representation across officiating and English football as a whole.
From assistant referee to Emirates FA Cup final referee 🏆
Ahead of Saturday’s final at Wembley, Darren England reflects on the journey that has taken him from running the line in the 2015 final to leading the officiating team for this weekend’s showpiece occasion.
From unforgettable Wembley memories, lessons learned along the way and advice for the next generation of match officials 🙌🏼
#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek
Looking for support?
Our dedicated Mental Health Champions are always on hand to offer advice and support. đź‘Ą
[email protected] 📥️
Referee Mel Burgin will lead the team of match officials for the Adobe Women’s FA Cup Final 🏆
Mel will be supported by assistant referees Anastasiya Voloshchuk and Leoni Harland. Phoebe Cross has been appointed as fourth official with Ruby Sykes as reserve assistant referee.
Paul Howard and Neil Davies will operate as VAR and AVAR respectively for the final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday 31 May.
Had success to celebrate this season? 🥳
We're going to be highlighting the best stories from our grassroots referees throughout June, so send us your photos and highlights from 2025/26 and tell us yours.
Link in the bio. đź”—
Today marks the start of #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek 2026 📆
#MentalHealth is more than just a small part of our lives. It’s connected to every little thing we do, every place we go and every person around us.
Worried about a mate? Check in with them 🤝
Need support yourself? Reach out 📲
đź”— .uk
Paul Kirby's story for #DeafAwarenessWeek is one of the most inspiring features you will read. 🙌
As the week draws to a close, make sure you take a read. đź“–
Link in the bio. đź”—
