The BBC and BT Sport have extended their joint rights deal for the FA Cup through to the end of the 2020-21 season.
The three-year contract extension ends speculation that the BBC could surrender the rights to the competition as part of severe cost-cutting measures that have already seen it lose coverage of Formula 1 and The Open.
As part of the new deal, BT will be able to show an extra game from the first five rounds, meaning that the broadcaster will show 30 games per season exclusively live.
"We are delighted to retain the rights to broadcast the most famous domestic cup competition in the world on free to air TV," said Barbara Slater, the BBC's head of sport. "FA Cup coverage on the BBC will continue to unite the nation through must see sporting moments, captivating audiences of all ages."
The deal with the FA will also see both broadcasters air more women's games, with BT also grabbing the rights to England under-17s, under-19s and under-21s games.
Neil Wilkes
