The FA Cup is set to undergo a significant transformation as TNT Sports takes on the role of host broadcaster for both the men’s and women’s competitions. This season marks the first time TNT Sports will cover the tournament, which reached the second round stage last weekend. In an interview with SVG Europe, Pete Thomas, head of football at TNT Sports, outlined the broadcaster’s vision for bringing unique storytelling and engaging production to the tournament.
As soon as the draw is made for each round, TNT Sports promptly selects the matches it will broadcast live. Following this, the production team visits the selected venues to assess technical requirements and identify unique storytelling opportunities. Thomas emphasizes the importance of communication with the clubs, stating, “It’s making sure we open up a channel really quickly, find the right person to speak to who’s going to help us.”
Creative Presentation Strategies
TNT Sports is implementing a standardized camera plan, which will be adjusted based on the specific capabilities of each venue. Thomas encourages his team to think beyond conventional presentation formats. He explains, “The simple thing to do when we go on site to a Cup game would be to stand pitchside and present from pitchside. What else can we bring to life at this stadium, at this club, in this town?”
The broadcaster aims to showcase the heart and soul of each club. By highlighting unique characters and narratives, TNT Sports hopes to engage viewers and deepen their connection to the teams. “That’s probably what I think our approach will be,” Thomas notes, “and I think it matches what our approach has been on the other competitions we work on.”
Thomas recognizes that the FA Cup presents unique challenges due to the diverse sizes and locations of the clubs involved. He sees these challenges as opportunities for creative production. “The challenges are always unique,” he says, recalling past experiences where unexpected issues arose, such as technical difficulties caused by equipment. Nevertheless, he appreciates the smaller clubs and their willingness to collaborate, as each presents a chance to highlight their stories.
Bringing Fans Closer to the Action
The production team at TNT Sports is focused on tailoring each broadcast to the unique characteristics of the clubs’ grounds. By navigating logistical issues, such as space constraints for outside broadcasting units, the team aims to provide fresh perspectives. Thomas emphasizes that the moments of unpredictability often yield the most engaging content. “The challenges are often the best bits,” he explains, noting how close proximity between players and fans can create exciting storytelling opportunities.
Looking ahead, TNT Sports is set to release a documentary titled The People’s Story: The FA Cup. Scheduled to air in January 2026, this 90-minute film will explore the tournament’s emotional highs and lows, featuring stories from iconic matches, including Everton’s Mike Trebilcock and Sunderland’s surprising victory in 1973.
Thomas expresses enthusiasm for the documentary, stating that it will reveal how the FA Cup is intertwined with the fabric of society. “We put that above all else in trying to tell the stories and bring the fans as close to the action as we can,” he asserts. As the season progresses, TNT Sports aims to capture the essence of the FA Cup, fostering a sense of hope and excitement that resonates with fans around the world.
