The Football Association have reportedly agreed a six-season overseas broadcasting deal to show the FA Cup, starting from the 2018-19 season.
According to theBBC, the deal is worth an estimated £1bn, with marketing agencyPitch International covering rights for western Europe, theMiddle East and North Africa, while IMG will be given the rest of the world.BT Sport and the BBC will continue to have rights in the UK for the competition.
The FA has agreed a new six-season deal for the overseas broadcast rights of the FA Cup. https://t.co/smtS8WRGKI pic.twitter.com/eLSnpDmv18
FA chief executive Martin Glenn emphasised the importance of the deal, the official value of which was undisclosed.He believes the deal will allow more investment in pitches and facilities across the country, calling it "hugely significant".
"It is not overstating it to say that it could have a transformational impact on what we are able to achieve across the country," Glenn said.
"It also underlines the global popularity of The Emirates FA Cup. With its history and tradition, it has the remarkable ability to create fantastic stories and inspire fans, players and clubs to believe anything is possible."
"On top of that, by the time we get to the Wembley showpiece next May, more than £30m will have been distributed to competing clubs this season, from the amateur game right through to the elite level.
"We are extremely grateful to Pitch International and IMG for recognising the value of this wonderful competition - as we are to our other cup partners - and their support will have a direct and lasting impact in helping us to grow the grassroots and making sure football is for all."
The deal also includes rights for the FA Community Shield and the FA Youth Cup.