About FA Vase

History, Format, Organization, Media Coverage

The FA Vase is an annual knockout cup competition in English football for clubs from Steps 5 and 6 of the National League System. It was founded in 1974, and it replaced the FA Amateur Cup. As the name suggests, it is administered by the English Football Association (FA).

Nearly 600 clubs participate in this tournament each season, with the competition kicking off in August. It begins with two qualifying rounds, narrowing the contestants to around 230 teams, followed by the Competition Proper that runs until May.

The Competition Proper comprises five rounds, with the FA Vase played on a regional basis until the fourth round, leading into the quarterfinals, semifinals, and final. The FA Vase semifinals are contested over two legs, while the final takes place over a single leg at the iconic Wembley Stadium.

Hoddesdon Town won the inaugural FA Vase title, defeating Epsom & Ewell in an underdog victory. Billericay Town triumphed in this competition on three occasions in the following four seasons, becoming the first club to secure three titles. Meanwhile, Whitley Bay made history as the first team to win three consecutive FA Vase trophies from 2009 to 2011.