FA Community Shield
The FA Community Shield, formerly known as the Charity Shield, is an annual association football match in England that serves as the traditional curtain-raiser to the domestic season, contested between the winners of the previous season's Premier League (or Football League First Division) and the FA Cup.[1][2] It originated in 1908 as an evolution of the Sheriff of London Charity Shield, which had pitted professional against amateur teams since 1898, with the inaugural Community Shield match seeing Manchester United defeat Queens Park Rangers 4–0 at Stamford Bridge after a 1–1 draw.[1] The competition was renamed the FA Community Shield in 2002 to reflect its community-focused charitable contributions, having raised over £5 million for good causes by the turn of the millennium.[1] Since 1974, the match has been held at Wembley Stadium, establishing it as a high-profile event that attracts a global television audience exceeding 270 million, though it has occasionally been relocated, such as to Villa Park in 2012 and King Power Stadium in 2022 due to scheduling conflicts with the Olympic Games and Commonwealth Games, respectively.[1] The single-match format is resolved by a penalty shoot-out if tied after 90 minutes, a rule introduced in 1993 to avoid replays, which had only been used once since the competition's inception; prior to the 1990s, drawn matches sometimes resulted in shared titles, particularly in the 1980s.[1] While historically viewed as less prestigious than the league or cup, the Shield has produced memorable encounters, including Manchester United's record 8–4 victory over Swindon Town in 1911, and it continues to generate significant revenue for community initiatives through The Football Association (FA).[1] Manchester United hold the record with 21 wins (17 outright and four shared), followed by Arsenal and Liverpool with 17 and 16, respectively, underscoring the dominance of top clubs in this fixture.[3] The 2025 edition, held on 10 August at Wembley, saw FA Cup winners Crystal Palace defeat Premier League champions Liverpool 3–2 on penalties after a 2–2 draw, marking Palace's first-ever triumph in the competition and highlighting its role in showcasing emerging contenders.[2][4]Overview and Format
Competition Structure
The FA Community Shield is an annual single-match contest between the champions of the Premier League and the winners of the FA Cup from the preceding season, serving as the traditional opening fixture of the English football season.[2] This format ensures a high-profile clash between the top-performing clubs in England's premier domestic competitions, highlighting the culmination of the previous campaign while previewing the upcoming one. The match is typically scheduled for early to mid-August, aligning with the start of the new Premier League season and providing an early competitive outing for the participants.[2] In cases where a single team achieves the domestic double by winning both the Premier League and the FA Cup, that club defends the Shield against the Premier League runners-up to maintain the contest's competitiveness and avoid a repeat matchup.[2] For instance, in 2023, Manchester City, having secured both titles, faced Arsenal as the league's second-place finishers.[5] Conversely, the 2024 edition pitted Manchester City, the Premier League champions, against Manchester United, the FA Cup winners, while the 2025 edition featured Premier League champions Liverpool against FA Cup winners Crystal Palace, with Palace winning 3–2 on penalties after a 2–2 draw, exemplifying the standard matchup when titles are split.[6][2][4] Organized by The Football Association (FA), the Community Shield functions as a charity event, with all proceeds directed toward the Football Foundation and other community initiatives across England to support grassroots football development and charitable causes.[7][8] Since its rebranding and modern structure, the match has generated millions in funding, including over £5 million in grants awarded by the Foundation for facilities and programs benefiting local communities.[9] This charitable element underscores the competition's role beyond mere competition, fostering broader societal impact through football.[7]Rules and Eligibility
The FA Community Shield match follows a standard format of 90 minutes of play, divided into two 45-minute halves with a 15-minute interval. If the score is level at the end of regulation time, the outcome is decided immediately by a penalty shootout according to International Football Association Board (IFAB) procedures, with no extra time played and no possibility of a draw or shared result. This structure ensures a definitive winner, and the match is officiated by a panel appointed by The Football Association (FA), including the use of goal-line technology where available.[10][11] Eligibility for the competition is determined by the results of the previous season's Premier League and FA Cup. The two participating clubs are the Premier League champions and the FA Cup winners; should the same club secure both titles, the match instead pits that club against the Premier League runners-up. Qualification is finalized after the conclusion of the FA Cup final and the Premier League campaign, with The FA notifying clubs of their involvement and handling any logistical arrangements. In exceptional circumstances where eligibility remains unresolved—such as timing issues related to season-end playoffs or other contingencies—The FA reserves the right to make ad hoc determinations to ensure the fixture proceeds. Players must be properly registered with their clubs per FA regulations to participate.[10][9] A core element of the Community Shield is its charitable purpose, with all gate receipts, programme sales, and sponsorship revenues directed entirely to community football initiatives and charitable causes rather than providing prize money to the clubs. This model, which ensures no financial reward for participants, underscores the event's role as a season opener focused on broader societal benefits. The charity framework was significantly formalized in 1974 under FA Secretary Ted Croker, when the match shifted to Wembley Stadium and began systematically channeling proceeds to support various funds, raising over £5 million for charities between 1974 and 2000 alone. Today, funds primarily aid grassroots programs, local community projects in areas like the London Borough of Brent through the Wembley Community Club, and national efforts such as partnerships with the Alzheimer's Society for dementia support and The Felix Project to combat food poverty, delivering impacts like 124,000 meals in the 2024-25 period.[9][1] Historically, the rules have evolved to address unique scenarios, including tie resolution methods. Prior to 1993, drawn matches were often shared between the clubs, as seen in 11 instances between 1949 and 1991, but penalty shootouts were reintroduced that year to produce a sole winner. Earlier formats occasionally involved replays, such as the inaugural 1908 contest, though this practice was discontinued shortly thereafter. Rare instances of disputes in the 1920s, including eligibility challenges amid the era's amateur-professional divides, led to occasional forfeits or ad hoc FA interventions, though such cases have been minimal since the competition's standardization in 1974. These adjustments reflect The FA's ongoing efforts to maintain procedural clarity and competitive integrity.[1][10]Historical Development
Origins
The Sheriff of London Charity Shield was established in 1898 as an annual match between the top professional and amateur teams in England, devised by Sir Thomas Dewar, 1st Baronet, and ratified by the Football Association to raise funds for charity.[12][13] This competition, often called the Dewar Shield due to its organizer's sponsorship, featured a massive trophy measuring over 6 feet in height and ran irregularly until 1907, pitting representatives like Corinthian FC (amateurs) against professional sides such as Sheffield United.[12][14] In 1908, the format evolved into the Charity Shield, replacing the Sheriff of London version by matching the champions of the Football League First Division and the Southern League, both professional competitions, to better reflect the growing prominence of league football.[1][15] The inaugural match on 27 April 1908 at Stamford Bridge ended in a 1–1 draw between Manchester United and Queens Park Rangers, with a replay on 29 August at Stamford Bridge won 4–0 by Manchester United; proceeds of £400 were donated to charity, with the winners selecting recipients.[16] Early editions maintained a professional focus but varied in opponents, including Southern League champions or FA Cup winners, while occasionally reverting to professionals versus amateurs, as in 1913 when a Professionals XI defeated an Amateurs XI 7–2 at The Den.[16] A notable 1911 clash saw Manchester United thrash Swindon Town 8–4 at Stamford Bridge, the highest-scoring Charity Shield to date, underscoring the match's emerging competitiveness amid football's shift toward full professionalism.[1] By 1921, the format stabilized as a contest between the Football League champions and FA Cup winners, with Tottenham Hotspur defeating Burnley 2–0 at White Hart Lane in the first such matchup.[17][18] The competition faced disruptions from the First World War, with no matches held from 1915 to 1919, leading to irregular scheduling in the interwar period; pre-Second World War editions, such as the 1923 and 1924 professionals-versus-amateurs games, highlighted ongoing debates over amateur involvement before the format fully professionalized post-1926.[1][16]Evolution and Key Changes
Following the suspension of the FA Charity Shield during World War II from 1939 to 1947, the competition resumed in 1948 and was established as an annual event thereafter, typically contested between the Football League champions and FA Cup winners as a season curtain-raiser from 1959 onward.[16] This post-war regularization solidified its role in English football, with matches held consistently despite occasional venue variations at the grounds of participating clubs. By the 1960s, the format had stabilized, but structural shifts began to emerge, including a trial relocation to Wembley Stadium in 1974—marking the first time the fixture was hosted there—which transitioned into a permanent adoption from 1975, enhancing its prestige as the national stadium's opening event.[1] Exceptions to the Wembley tradition occurred in later years, such as during the 2001–2006 period when it was held at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff due to renovations, and relocations in 2012 to Villa Park amid the London Olympics and in 2022 to the King Power Stadium for scheduling reasons.[16] A significant rebranding occurred in 2002, when the event was renamed the FA Community Shield after the UK Charity Commission determined that the Football Association had not adequately specified the proportion of proceeds allocated to charitable causes, prompting a shift in emphasis from pure charity to broader community benefits.[19] This change reflected evolving regulatory and philanthropic priorities, with over £5 million raised for charities between 1974 and 2000 alone.[1] In the 2010s, further adjustments highlighted its adaptive nature; for instance, from 2016, proceeds were explicitly directed toward supporting grassroots football initiatives and not-for-profit organizations in the Brent area, reinforcing its community-focused identity.[1] Modern iterations have navigated external disruptions, including the impact of European and international commitments on scheduling, though outright cancellations remain rare. The 2020 edition, contested between Arsenal and Liverpool, was delayed from its traditional early-August slot to 29 August and played behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking a temporary shift to ensure player safety amid global restrictions.[20] Post-pandemic, fan attendance resumed in 2021 with limited capacity under health protocols, transitioning to hybrid models blending in-stadium and virtual engagement before returning to full crowds by 2022.[21] In the 2020s, the Football Association has integrated broader sustainability efforts, as outlined in its 2024–2028 strategy, which emphasizes reducing emissions, optimizing resources, and supporting environmentally conscious practices at events like the Community Shield to promote long-term ecological responsibility in football.[22]Trophy and Traditions
The Shield
The FA Community Shield is represented by a distinctive silver shield-shaped trophy, symbolizing the unity and goodwill within English football communities. Crafted as a more practical and elegant award compared to its oversized predecessors, the current version emphasizes the competition's charitable origins while serving as a season-opening honor.[23][1] The trophy's design features intricate engravings recording the names of winning clubs and the corresponding years, preserving the history of each contest. It is constructed from sterling silver to ensure both aesthetic appeal and durability for annual use. The shield form reflects the competition's evolution from early 20th-century charity matches aimed at fostering amateur-professional harmony and raising funds for good causes.[24][25] Historically, the trophy traces its roots to the 1908 inception of the FA Charity Shield, which replaced the Sheriff of London Charity Shield—a massive, nearly six-foot-tall silver trophy donated by Sir Thomas Dewar in 1898 to promote football philanthropy. In the 1920s, the Football Association introduced its own version, maintaining the shield motif but adapting it for the annual clash between league and cup champions. The trophy has been shield-shaped since the FA's early versions. Silversmiths Thomas Lyte have restored and rebuilt versions since 2016, including a reconstruction that year to mark the 50th anniversary of England's 1966 World Cup victory, and continue to restore the trophy each year.[25][23][24][26] Unlike permanent awards such as the FA Cup, the Community Shield trophy is not retained by the winning club; it is returned to the Football Association annually for reuse in the following match, while full-size replicas are provided to the victorious team and its players for display. This tradition underscores the competition's role as a shared emblem of seasonal renewal and community support, with proceeds from the event historically directed toward charitable initiatives.[1][27]Presentation and Ceremonies
The presentation of the FA Community Shield follows established football traditions, beginning with pre-match ceremonies at Wembley Stadium where the competing teams' players line up on the pitch for the playing of the national anthems.[28] These proceedings often include charitable elements, such as occasional auctions of memorabilia or tickets to support community causes, as seen in past events where items like the historic Charity Shield replica were auctioned to benefit funds such as the Bobby Moore Fund for cancer research.[29] The atmosphere emphasizes the match's role as a season curtain-raiser, with dignitaries and FA representatives present to underscore its charitable significance. Post-match, the winning captain receives the shield directly on the pitch in a formal handover ceremony conducted by FA officials or sponsor representatives, marking the official presentation.[28] This is followed by team celebrations, including family photo opportunities with the trophy, allowing players and their loved ones to pose together amid the Wembley arch backdrop.[28] These rituals highlight the event's communal spirit, with proceeds from the match directed toward grassroots initiatives, though no dedicated annual charity dinner for stakeholders is a fixed tradition; instead, broader stakeholder engagements occur through FA community programs.[9] Since the 2010s, the FA has integrated diversity initiatives into the Community Shield's ceremonies as part of its broader equality and inclusion strategy, "In Pursuit of Progress," launched in 2018 to increase female and BAME representation in football leadership and events.[30] This includes efforts to involve female youth through programs like Weetabix Wildcats for girls aged 5-11, which promote inclusive participation and are supported by Shield proceeds, fostering greater visibility for young female players in the sport's ecosystem.[31] Ceremonial elements have evolved to reflect these goals, such as culturally sensitive community support like the Memory Café at Wembley, which provides dementia resources tailored to Brent's diverse populations during matchdays.[9] Variations in ceremonies emerged during the 2020s due to the COVID-19 pandemic; the 2020 edition, contested behind closed doors without spectators, abandoned planned pilot fan attendance to prioritize health protocols, resulting in subdued presentations limited to players and essential staff.[32] More recently, 2023 saw the incorporation of ESG-focused elements aligned with the FA's new five-year sustainability strategy, including waste minimization and resource optimization at Wembley events to reduce environmental impact.[22] For 2025, inclusivity expansions included dedicated sensory rooms at Wembley for guests with neurodiversity or cognitive impairments, alongside on-pitch recognition of grassroots heroes to celebrate diverse community contributors.[33][34]Venues
Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium became the adopted permanent home for the FA Community Shield in 1974, serving as the annual venue during the original stadium's tenure until 2000, before the competition temporarily moved to the Millennium Stadium from 2001 to 2006 due to renovations. The new Wembley Stadium, which opened in March 2007 following a comprehensive rebuild that began in 2002, has hosted the match annually since then, solidifying its role as the fixture's central location. This transition marked a return to the iconic venue, enhancing the event's status as the official curtain-raiser to the English football season.[1] With a capacity of 90,000, Wembley offers one of Europe's largest football arenas, accommodating large crowds for the Community Shield and amplifying its prestige as a national showcase. The pitch measures 115 yards long by 75 yards wide, providing a broad, high-quality surface that meets FIFA standards and allows for dynamic play in the season's opening contest.[35][36] Since 1974, the stadium—both its original and rebuilt versions—has hosted 44 editions of the competition, accounting for all but eight matches in that period and establishing it as the defining venue for the event.[1] The venue's significance extends beyond logistics, symbolizing the prestige and tradition of English football, where the Community Shield serves as a high-profile clash between the previous season's top teams under the arches of the national stadium. The 2000s renovations introduced state-of-the-art facilities, including improved player amenities, advanced floodlighting, and enhanced spectator areas, which have elevated the overall experience for Community Shield events and contributed to their growing global appeal. Notable moments include the 2011 match between Manchester United and Manchester City, which drew an attendance of 77,169, highlighting the venue's draw for fans. In contrast, the 2020 edition was played behind closed doors without spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking a rare adaptation while still utilizing Wembley's infrastructure for the double-header with the women's match. The 2025 edition was also held at Wembley Stadium.[1][37][38][2]Other Venues
Prior to the establishment of Wembley Stadium as the primary venue in 1974, the FA Community Shield—then known as the Charity Shield—was hosted at a variety of club grounds across England, often selected for their neutrality, accessibility, or connection to the competing teams. The inaugural match in 1908 took place at Stamford Bridge in London, where Manchester United defeated Queens Park Rangers 4-0 in a replay after a 1-1 draw, setting a precedent for using the venue as a neutral site in the early years.[39] Stamford Bridge hosted multiple editions through the 1920s, including the 1923 Professionals XI vs. Amateurs XI (2-0) and the 1927 Cardiff City vs. Corinthians (2-1), reflecting its role as a convenient London-based option before the competition gained greater prestige.[39] In the 1930s and beyond, venues shifted to promote regional balance and accessibility, with Highbury in London serving as host for several fixtures, such as Arsenal's 4-0 win over Manchester City in 1934 and Sheffield Wednesday's 1-0 victory against Arsenal in 1935.[39] Goodison Park in Liverpool emerged as a key regional ground in the mid-20th century, hosting matches like Arsenal's 3-0 triumph over Everton in 1933 and Everton's 4-0 defeat of Manchester United in 1963, which helped broaden the event's appeal beyond the capital.[39] These choices were influenced by logistical needs, including war disruptions that suspended the competition entirely from 1939 to 1945 and led to ad hoc selections in the immediate post-war period, such as the 1948 clash at Highbury between Arsenal and Manchester United (4-3).[1] No single venue outside Wembley ever became permanent, as the format prioritized flexibility in its formative years. Modern exceptions to Wembley's dominance have occurred due to construction or scheduling conflicts. During the rebuild of the original Wembley Stadium, the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff hosted the Shield consecutively from 2001 to 2006, including Arsenal's penalty shootout win over Manchester United in 2003 (1-1, 4-3 on pens) and Liverpool's 2-1 victory against Chelsea in 2006.[16] In 2012, Villa Park in Birmingham accommodated Manchester City's 3-2 win over Chelsea, as Wembley was reserved for the London Olympics.[1] Similarly, the 2022 edition returned to a neutral site at Leicester City's King Power Stadium for Liverpool's 3-1 defeat of Manchester City, prompted by Wembley's commitment to the Women's Euro 2022 final the following day.[40] These temporary relocations underscore the event's adaptability to external pressures, without establishing any ongoing alternative venue.Significance and Status
Role in English Football
The FA Community Shield serves as the traditional curtain-raiser to the English football season, pitting the Premier League champions against the FA Cup winners in a match that generates significant anticipation ahead of the competitive campaign.[11] This fixture, typically held at Wembley Stadium in early August, allows clubs to test squad depth and integrate new signings following the pre-season, providing an early gauge of team readiness without the immediate pressures of league points.[41] By marking the return of domestic top-flight action, it builds hype and excitement among fans, signaling the end of the off-season and the onset of another Premier League slate.[9] In terms of prestige, the Community Shield is often regarded as the season's first trophy opportunity, offering a morale boost to the victors as they enter the campaign with silverware.[11] However, its status is somewhat diminished by its low-stakes nature, as it carries no qualification for European competitions and is officially classified as a friendly match, with disciplinary actions not carrying over into the regular season.[41] The Football Association describes it as "incomparable" to other honors, yet it lacks the gravitas of major domestic or continental titles, serving more as a symbolic opener than a definitive measure of supremacy.[41] The competition reinforces the FA's governance role in promoting fair play and community engagement within English football, channeling proceeds from the event toward grassroots initiatives and charitable causes.[9] These funds support diverse projects, such as equipment for local clubs, youth development programs, and partnerships addressing social issues like dementia awareness through collaborations with organizations like the Alzheimer's Society.[31] This community focus underscores the Shield's cultural significance, fostering inclusivity and the sport's broader societal contributions beyond elite competition.[9] Despite its traditions, the Community Shield faces critiques regarding its competitiveness, as clubs often rest key players to manage fatigue ahead of the grueling Premier League schedule, leading to rotated lineups and uneven contests.[41] In the 2020s, debates have intensified over its relevance amid fixture congestion and the prioritization of player welfare, with some viewing it as a ceremonial event rather than a high-stakes rivalry that reliably predicts seasonal success.[11]Broadcasting and Attendance
The broadcasting rights for the FA Community Shield in the United Kingdom have evolved significantly, reflecting changes in media landscapes and commercial interests. From the 1960s to the 1990s, the BBC held the rights, followed by ITV acquiring them in the early 1990s, providing coverage for many years thereafter. BT Sport (now TNT Sports) began broadcasting the match in 2012, continuing until 2020. ITV provided free-to-air coverage from 2021 to 2024, making the event accessible to a broader audience without subscription. Starting in 2025, TNT Sports secured exclusive live rights through 2028 as part of a broader deal covering select FA competitions, while the BBC airs highlights only.[42][43][44] Internationally, the match reaches audiences through various broadcasters, enhancing its global appeal. In the United States, ESPN has held exclusive streaming rights on ESPN+ since 2018, including coverage of the 2025 edition featuring Crystal Palace versus Liverpool. beIN Sports broadcasts the event in regions such as the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia, including Indonesia, where it serves as the sole official stream. These deals contribute to widespread availability, with the match aired in over 170 countries.[45][46][47] Attendance at the FA Community Shield, primarily hosted at Wembley Stadium since 2007, underscores its status as a major preseason event, typically drawing crowds well above 70,000 despite its exhibition nature. The 2016 clash between Manchester City and Leicester City set the modern record with 85,509 spectators, while the 2019 Manchester City-Liverpool penalty shootout attracted 77,565 fans. The COVID-19 pandemic drastically impacted figures, with the 2020 match played behind closed doors (0 attendance) and the 2021 edition limited to 45,602 under capacity restrictions.[48][49][50][51] Recovery has been strong, as evidenced by 78,146 attendees in 2024[52] and 82,645 in 2025.[52] In the digital era, the FA Community Shield benefits from enhanced online engagement, complementing traditional broadcasts. The FA offers streaming of highlights and extended coverage via its FA Player platform, while official social media channels on YouTube, Instagram, and X provide real-time clips and analysis, driving fan interaction. The 2025 match broke livestream records, with the pre-match show peaking at 541,748 concurrent viewers across platforms, highlighting growing digital consumption.[44][53]Records and Achievements
Overall Records
The FA Community Shield has been contested 103 times as of the 2025 edition, encompassing all fixtures since its inception in 1908, including those shared after draws and accounting for voids during the World Wars when the match was not held.[16] In the standard format pitting the Premier League champions against the FA Cup winners, the league champions have secured victory on 52 occasions, the cup winners on 31, with 20 matches ending in shared honors prior to the mandatory penalty shootouts introduced in 1993. Prior to the shift to neutral venues in 1974, the designated home team—typically the league champions—benefited from an approximate 60% win rate, highlighting the influence of playing advantage in the competition's early decades.[1] Scoring records in the competition reflect its occasionally high-tempo nature, with the highest aggregate goals in a single match reaching 12 during the 1911 encounter, where Manchester United defeated Swindon Town 8–4 at Stamford Bridge.[1] More recently, the 2025 fixture between Crystal Palace and Liverpool produced four goals in regular time (ending 2–2 before a 3–2 penalty win for Palace), marking one of the higher tallies in the modern era at Wembley Stadium.[54] The longest penalty shootout occurred in 2024, with Manchester City prevailing 7–6 over Manchester United after a 1–1 draw, totaling 13 kicks and underscoring the drama of tiebreakers in contemporary editions.[55] Historically, around 25% of matches have ended level after 90 minutes, often leading to extra time before the penalty rule change, though recent fixtures have seen a higher draw rate, with both the 2024 and 2025 contests requiring shootouts.[1] Modern attendance records at Wembley highlight the event's growing appeal, with the highest figure of 85,896 recorded for the 2009 clash between Chelsea and Manchester United, while the 2025 match drew 82,645 spectators.[48]Club and Individual Records
Manchester United hold the record for the most FA Community Shield titles with 21 wins, including several shared outcomes. Arsenal follow with 17 titles, while Liverpool have secured 16. Manchester City have won 7 titles, tying with Tottenham Hotspur for fifth place overall. Everton participated in four consecutive editions from 1984 to 1987, securing two outright wins and two shared titles.[56][21][57] Crystal Palace won their first title in 2025. Manchester United also hold the record for most losses with 10 defeats across their participations. No foreign clubs have competed in the standard format since its inception, though early editions featured guest teams such as Rangers from Scotland in 1912. Tottenham Hotspur's 1921 victory as Second Division FA Cup winners is a notable early achievement, defeating league champions Preston North End 2–0 at White Hart Lane.[58][57] Among individuals, Ryan Giggs holds the record for most appearances with 13 for Manchester United. Éric Cantona made 8 appearances and is the top scorer in the modern era (post-1992) with 5 goals. Thierry Henry scored 4 goals for Arsenal across multiple finals. Sir Alex Ferguson won the competition a record 10 times as Manchester United manager.[59][60][57]List of Matches
Results by Year
The FA Community Shield has been contested annually since 1908, with interruptions during the World Wars, pitting the winners of the Football League First Division (now Premier League) against the FA Cup winners. In cases where one team achieved the double, the league runners-up or a Football League representative typically faced the cup winners. The following table lists all matches chronologically, including scores, winners, venues, attendance figures where recorded, and notable notes such as shared trophies or goal details.[16]| Year | Date | League Champions/Runners-up | FA Cup Winners | Score | Winner | Venue | Attendance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1908 | 25 Apr / 28 Apr | Manchester United | Queens Park Rangers | 1–1 / 0–4 | Manchester United | Stamford Bridge, London | 6,000 / 3,000 | Two-legged; first leg 1-1, second leg 4-0 Man Utd; goals in replay: multiple for Man Utd. First-ever Shield.[1] |
| 1909 | 28 Apr | Newcastle United | Northampton Town | 2–0 | Newcastle United | Stamford Bridge, London | 7,000 | Goals: J. Howie, A. Shepherd (Newcastle). |
| 1910 | 18 Apr | Aston Villa (runners-up) | Brighton & Hove Albion | 2–1 | Aston Villa | Stamford Bridge, London | 10,000 | Goal: Multiple; league champions Chelsea declined to play. |
| 1911 | 24 Apr | Manchester United | Swindon Town | 8–4 | Manchester United | Stamford Bridge, London | 8,000 | Goals: R. Duckworth 3, others (Man Utd). High-scoring. |
| 1912 | 8 Apr | Blackburn Rovers | Queens Park Rangers | 2–1 | Blackburn Rovers | Stamford Bridge, London | 8,000 | Goals: R. McKay, W. McCartney (Blackburn); S. Goldie (QPR). |
| 1913 | 7 Apr | Professionals XI | Amateurs XI | 7–2 | Professionals | The Oval, London | 15,000 | Exhibition match; goals spread. |
| 1914–1919 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Not played due to World War I. |
| 1920 | 10 Apr | West Bromwich Albion | Tottenham Hotspur (runners-up) | 2–0 | West Bromwich Albion | Highbury, London | 12,000 | Goals: B. McLachlan, E. Taylor (West Brom); cup winners Sunderland declined. |
| 1921 | 23 Sep | Burnley | Tottenham Hotspur | 2–0 | Burnley | White Hart Lane, London | 15,000 | Goals: J. Pickering, A. Lindley (Burnley). |
| 1922 | 11 May | Liverpool (runners-up) | Huddersfield Town | 1–0 | Huddersfield Town | Maine Road, Manchester | 15,500 | Goal: A. Massie (og, Liverpool). |
| 1923 | 24 May | Liverpool | West Ham United | 2–0 | Liverpool | Anfield, Liverpool | 20,000 | Goals: D. McKinlay, H. Chambers (Liverpool). |
| 1924 | 25 Oct | Huddersfield Town | Cardiff City | 2–1 | Huddersfield Town | Highbury, London | 13,000 | Goals: W. Brown, C. Kelly (Huddersfield); J. Nicholson (Cardiff). |
| 1925 | 26 Sep | Huddersfield Town (runners-up) | Sheffield United | 1–2 | Sheffield United | Stamford Bridge, London | 10,000 | Goals: F. Tunstall (Sheffield Utd); S. Cowan (Huddersfield). |
| 1926 | 3 Oct | Huddersfield Town | Bolton Wanderers | 1–2 | Bolton Wanderers | Roker Park, Sunderland | 22,000 | Neutral venue; goals: J. Smith (Huddersfield); D. Green, J. McClelland (Bolton). |
| 1927 | 12 Aug | Newcastle United (runners-up) | Cardiff City | 0–0* | Shared | Goodison Park, Liverpool | 25,000 | *Shared trophy; replay not played. |
| 1928 | 4 Aug | Everton | Blackburn Rovers | 2–1 | Everton | Anfield, Liverpool | 30,000 | Goals: W. Dean 2 (Everton); J. McKay (Blackburn). |
| 1929 | 3 Aug | The Football League XI | The FA XI | 2–3 | The FA XI | Wembley Stadium, London | 17,500 | Exhibition; first at Wembley. Goals for FA: A. Barrett, J. Cock, H. Isherwood. |
| 1930 | 2 Aug | Sheffield Wednesday (runners-up) | Arsenal | 2–1 | Arsenal | Wembley Stadium, London | 25,478 | Goals: J. Ball, A. James (Arsenal); E. Wilson (Sheff Wed). |
| 1931 | 1 Aug | Arsenal (runners-up) | West Bromwich Albion | 1–0 | West Bromwich Albion | Wembley Stadium, London | 10,000 | Goal: R. Roxburgh (West Brom). |
| 1932 | 13 Aug | Everton | Newcastle United | 5–3 | Everton | Goodison Park, Liverpool | 33,000 | Goals: T. Johnson 2, W. Dean 2, J. Stein (Everton); multiple for Newcastle. |
| 1933 | 12 Aug | Arsenal | Everton | 3–0 | Arsenal | Goodison Park, Liverpool | 40,000 | Goals: C. Jones, J. Hume, R. James (Arsenal). |
| 1934 | 11 Aug | Arsenal | Manchester City | 4–0 | Arsenal | Wembley Stadium, London | 60,000 | Goals: R. James, J. Bowden, W. Harper, A. Kennedy (Arsenal). |
| 1935 | 9 Aug | Arsenal (runners-up) | Sheffield Wednesday | 0–1 | Sheffield Wednesday | Wembley Stadium, London | 55,000 | Goal: J. Swift (Sheff Wed). |
| 1936 | 15 Oct | Sunderland | Arsenal | 2–1 | Sunderland | Roker Park, Sunderland | 35,000 | Goals: B. Waddle, J. Thompson (Sunderland); T. Black (Arsenal). |
| 1937 | 14 Oct | Manchester City | Sunderland | 1–2 | Sunderland | Roker Park, Sunderland | 34,000 | Goals: K. Broad (Man City); W. Johnston 2 (Sunderland). |
| 1938 | 13 Oct | Arsenal | Preston North End | 2–1 | Preston North End | Roker Park, Sunderland | 30,000 | Neutral; goals: A. Dougan, F. O'Donnell (Preston); J. Crayston (Arsenal). |
| 1939–1947 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Not played due to World War II. |
| 1948 | 7 Oct | Arsenal | Manchester United | 0–0* | Shared | Old Trafford, Manchester | 45,000 | *Shared; replay not played. |
| 1949 | 20 Aug | Portsmouth | Wolverhampton Wanderers | 1–1* | Shared | Highbury, London | 40,000 | *Shared trophy; each retained for 6 months. |
| 1950 | 22 Oct | Portsmouth (runners-up) | Newcastle United | 2–4 | Newcastle United | St James' Park, Newcastle | 50,000 | Goals for Newcastle: J. Milburn 2, R. Brennan, W. Foulkes. |
| 1951 | 22 Sep | Tottenham Hotspur | Newcastle United | 2–1 | Tottenham Hotspur | White Hart Lane, London | 27,000 | Goals: L. Duquemin, A. Medley (Tottenham); R. Walker (Newcastle). |
| 1952 | 9 Aug | Manchester United | Newcastle United | 4–2 | Manchester United | Old Trafford, Manchester | 30,000 | Goals: J. Rowley 2, R. Berry, D. White (Man Utd); J. Milburn 2 (Newcastle). |
| 1953 | 22 Oct | Arsenal | Blackpool | 1–3 | Blackpool | Highbury, London | 45,000 | Goals: S. Matthews, S. Perry, E. Taylor (Blackpool); D. Roper (Arsenal). |
| 1954 | 14 Aug | Wolverhampton Wanderers | West Bromwich Albion | 4–2 | Wolverhampton Wanderers | Molineux, Wolverhampton | 45,000 | Goals: R. Swinbourne 2, D. Ulrich, P. Broadbent (Wolves); R. Ryan, D. Walsh (West Brom). |
| 1955 | 13 Aug | Chelsea | Newcastle United | 0–3 | Newcastle United | St James' Park, Newcastle | 50,000 | Goals: I. White, R. Milburn, V. Kee (Newcastle). |
| 1956 | 11 Aug | Manchester City | Tottenham Hotspur | 1–0 | Manchester City | Maine Road, Manchester | 35,000 | Goal: K. Barlow (Man City). |
| 1957 | 22 Oct | Manchester United | Aston Villa | 4–0 | Manchester United | Villa Park, Birmingham | 45,000 | Goals: T. Taylor, E. Taylor, B. Charlton, D. White (Man Utd). |
| 1958 | 26 Jul | Manchester United | Bolton Wanderers | 0–4 | Bolton Wanderers | Burnden Park, Bolton | 45,000 | Goals: N. Ofog, R. Parry 2, D. Edwards (og) (Bolton). |
| 1959 | 8 Aug | Nottingham Forest (runners-up) | Luton Town | 3–1 | Nottingham Forest | City Ground, Nottingham | 30,000 | Goals: J. McGovern, A. Quixall 2 (Forest); R. Dwane, R. Russell (Luton). |
| 1960 | 13 Aug | Burnley | Wolverhampton Wanderers | 2–2* | Shared | Molineux, Wolverhampton | 40,000 | *Shared; goals: J. Connelly, B. McIlroy (Burnley); P. Broadbent, M. Murray (Wolves). |
| 1961 | 12 Aug | Tottenham Hotspur | FA XI | 3–2 | Tottenham Hotspur | White Hart Lane, London | 52,000 | Exhibition vs FA select; goals: J. Greaves 2, L. Blekinsop (Tottenham). |
| 1962 | 11 Aug | Ipswich Town | Norwich City | 1–4 | Norwich City | Portman Road, Ipswich | 20,000 | Local derby; goals for Norwich: multiple including A. Punton 2. |
| 1963 | 10 Aug | Everton | Manchester United | 4–0 | Everton | Goodison Park, Liverpool | 55,000 | Goals: A. Vernon 2, T. Harris, B. Harris (Everton). |
| 1964 | 15 Aug | Manchester United | Liverpool | 2–2* | Shared | Old Trafford, Manchester | 60,000 | *Shared; goals: B. Charlton, D. Herd (Man Utd); R. Hunt, I. St John (Liverpool). |
| 1965 | 14 Aug | Liverpool (runners-up) | Manchester United | 2–2* | Shared | Old Trafford, Manchester | 62,000 | *Shared; goals: W. Lawton 2 (Liverpool); B. Charlton, D. Herd (Man Utd). |
| 1966 | 13 Aug | Liverpool | Everton | 1–0 | Liverpool | Goodison Park, Liverpool | 55,000 | Goal: I. Callaghan (Liverpool); Merseyside derby. |
| 1967 | 12 Aug | Manchester United | Tottenham Hotspur | 3–0 | Manchester United | Old Trafford, Manchester | 57,000 | Goals: B. Charlton 2, D. Sadler (Man Utd). |
| 1968 | 10 Aug | Manchester City | West Bromwich Albion | 6–1 | Manchester City | Maine Road, Manchester | 40,000 | Goals: M. Summerbee 2, F. Barrett 2, N. Young, C. Bell (Man City). |
| 1969 | 9 Aug | Leeds United | Manchester City | 2–1 | Leeds United | Elland Road, Leeds | 40,000 | Goals: B. Lorimer, M. Jones (Leeds); F. Barrett (Man City). |
| 1970 | 8 Aug | Everton | Chelsea | 1–2 | Chelsea | Stamford Bridge, London | 45,000 | Goals: I. Hutchinson, P. Osgood (Chelsea); A. Ball (Everton). |
| 1971 | 7 Aug | Arsenal (runners-up) | Leeds United | 2–1 | Leeds United | Elland Road, Leeds | 36,000 | Goals: A. Clarke, P. Lorimer (Leeds); J. Radford (Arsenal). |
| 1972 | 5 Aug | Derby County | Manchester City (runners-up) | 1–0 | Derby County | Baseball Ground, Derby | 25,000 | Goal: K. Hector (Derby). |
| 1973 | 11 Aug | Liverpool | Manchester City | 1–0 | Liverpool | Maine Road, Manchester | 35,000 | Goal: I. Callaghan (Liverpool). |
| 1974 | 10 Aug | Liverpool | Leeds United | 1–1 (6–5 pens) | Liverpool | Wembley Stadium, London | 67,000 | First penalty shootout; goals: E. Gray (Leeds); K. Clements (Liverpool). |
| 1975 | 9 Aug | Derby County | West Ham United | 2–0 | Derby County | Wembley Stadium, London | 53,500 | Goals: K. Hector, J. McGovern (Derby). First regular at Wembley. |
| 1976 | 7 Aug | Liverpool | Southampton | 5–0 | Liverpool | Wembley Stadium, London | 76,000 | Goals: J. Toshack 2, K. Keegan 2, D. Johnson (Liverpool). |
| 1977 | 6 Aug | Liverpool | Manchester United | 0–0* | Shared | Wembley Stadium, London | 83,500 | *Shared; no goals. |
| 1978 | 12 Aug | Nottingham Forest | Ipswich Town | 5–0 | Nottingham Forest | Wembley Stadium, London | 52,000 | Goals: P. Withe 2, G. Birtles, J. McGovern, T. Burns (Forest). |
| 1979 | 11 Aug | Liverpool | Arsenal | 3–1 | Liverpool | Wembley Stadium, London | 83,500 | Goals: K. Dalglish 2, T. Fairclough (Liverpool); L. Macari (Arsenal). |
| 1980 | 9 Aug | Liverpool | West Ham United | 1–0 | Liverpool | Wembley Stadium, London | 84,000 | Goal: B. Williams (Liverpool). |
| 1981 | 22 Aug | Aston Villa | Tottenham Hotspur | 2–2* | Shared | Wembley Stadium, London | 83,000 | *Shared; goals: P. Withe, G. Shaw (Villa); S. Archibald, G. Roberts (Tottenham). |
| 1982 | 21 Aug | Liverpool | Tottenham Hotspur | 1–0 | Liverpool | Wembley Stadium, London | 74,000 | Goal: R. Dalglish (Liverpool). |
| 1983 | 20 Aug | Manchester United | Liverpool | 1–1 (4–3 pens) | Liverpool | Wembley Stadium, London | 79,000 | Goals: S. Nicol (Liverpool); B. Robson (Man Utd). |
| 1984 | 18 Aug | Liverpool | Everton | 0–1 | Everton | Wembley Stadium, London | 83,500 | Goal: G. Stevens (Everton); Merseyside derby. |
| 1985 | 10 Aug | Everton | Manchester United | 2–0 | Everton | Wembley Stadium, London | 75,000 | Goals: T. Steven, G. Lineker (Everton). |
| 1986 | 16 Aug | Liverpool (runners-up) | Everton | 1–1* | Shared | Wembley Stadium, London | 86,500 | *Shared; goals: I. Rush (Liverpool); T. Steven (Everton). |
| 1987 | 15 Aug | Everton | Coventry City | 1–0 | Coventry City | Wembley Stadium, London | 65,000 | Goal: K. Houchen (Coventry). |
| 1988 | 13 Aug | Liverpool | Wimbledon | 2–1 | Liverpool | Wembley Stadium, London | 55,000 | Goals: J. Aldridge 2 (Liverpool); D. Fashanu (Wimbledon). |
| 1989 | 12 Aug | Arsenal | Liverpool | 0–1 | Liverpool | Wembley Stadium, London | 80,000 | Goal: I. Rush (Liverpool). |
| 1990 | 11 Aug | Liverpool | Manchester United | 1–1* | Shared | Wembley Stadium, London | 64,000 | *Shared; goals: J. Barnes (Liverpool); B. Robson (Man Utd). |
| 1991 | 10 Aug | Arsenal | Tottenham Hotspur (runners-up) | 0–0 (4–3 pens) | Arsenal | Wembley Stadium, London | 62,000 | Arsenal won on penalties; no goals. |
| 1992 | 8 Aug | Leeds United | Liverpool | 4–3 | Leeds United | Wembley Stadium, London | 66,000 | Goals: L. Chapman 2, R. Wallace 2 (Leeds); R. McMahon, I. Rush 2 (Liverpool). |
| 1993 | 14 Aug | Manchester United | Arsenal | 1–1 (5–4 pens) | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 66,000 | Goals: E. Cantona (Man Utd); A. Wright (Arsenal). |
| 1994 | 13 Aug | Manchester United | Blackburn Rovers | 2–0 | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 62,000 | Goals: S. Bruce, D. May (Man Utd). Double for United. |
| 1995 | 12 Aug | Blackburn Rovers | Everton | 1–2 | Everton | Wembley Stadium, London | 60,000 | Goals: D. Unsworth 2 (Everton); C. Sutton (Blackburn). |
| 1996 | 10 Aug | Manchester United | Newcastle United | 4–0 | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 75,000 | Goals: E. Cantona, D. Beckham, L. Sharpe, S. McClair (Man Utd). |
| 1997 | 2 Aug | Manchester United | Chelsea | 1–1 (4–0 pens) | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 70,000 | Goals: D. Hughes (Man Utd); M. Zola (Chelsea). |
| 1998 | 16 Aug | Arsenal | Manchester United | 3–0 | Arsenal | Old Trafford, Manchester | 55,000 | Goals: M. Overmars, P. Vieira, N. Anelka (Arsenal). |
| 1999 | 1 Aug | Manchester United | Arsenal | 2–1 | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 73,000 | Goals: D. Beckham, T. Sheringham (Man Utd); N. Vieira (Arsenal). |
| 2000 | 13 Aug | Manchester United | Chelsea | 2–0 | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 66,000 | Goals: D. Beckham, A. Cole (og) (Man Utd). |
| 2001 | 12 Aug | Manchester United | Arsenal | 1–1 (4–3 pens) | Manchester United | Millennium Stadium, Cardiff | 68,000 | First outside England; goals: R. Keane (Man Utd); T. Henry (Arsenal). |
| 2002 | 10 Aug | Arsenal | Manchester United | 1–0 | Arsenal | Millennium Stadium, Cardiff | 66,000 | Goal: G. Bergkamp (Arsenal). |
| 2003 | 10 Aug | Manchester United | Arsenal | 1–1 (4–3 pens) | Manchester United | Millennium Stadium, Cardiff | 58,000 | Goals: J. Rooney (Man Utd); R. Pires (Arsenal). |
| 2004 | 8 Aug | Arsenal | Manchester United | 3–1 | Arsenal | Millennium Stadium, Cardiff | 59,000 | Goals: T. Henry 2, F. Fabregas (Arsenal); W. Rooney (Man Utd). |
| 2005 | 7 Aug | Chelsea | Arsenal | 2–1 | Chelsea | Millennium Stadium, Cardiff | 59,000 | Goals: T. Cole, W. Bridge (Chelsea); T. Henry (Arsenal). |
| 2006 | 13 Aug | Chelsea | Liverpool | 1–2 | Liverpool | Millennium Stadium, Cardiff | 58,000 | Goals: B. Zenden, D. Bellamy (Liverpool); D. Ferreira (Chelsea). |
| 2007 | 5 Aug | Manchester United | Chelsea | 3–0 | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 89,826 | Return to Wembley; goals: R. Ferdinand, W. Rooney, N. Ronaldo (Man Utd). |
| 2008 | 10 Aug | Manchester United | Portsmouth | 0–0 (3–1 pens) | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 88,815 | No goals; Man Utd win on pens. |
| 2009 | 9 Aug | Manchester United | Chelsea | 2–2 (4–1 pens) | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 88,000 | Goals: W. Rooney, N. Ronaldo (Man Utd); R. Lampard, R. Quaresma (og) (Chelsea). |
| 2010 | 8 Aug | Chelsea | Manchester United | 1–3 | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 84,000 | Goals: J. Evans, P. Scholes, W. Rooney (Man Utd); J. Terry (og). |
| 2011 | 7 Aug | Manchester United | Manchester City | 3–2 | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 80,000 | Goals: C. Young, D. Fletcher, N. Evra (og) (Man Utd); E. Dzeko, P. Hart (Man City). |
| 2012 | 12 Aug | Manchester City | Chelsea | 3–2 | Manchester City | Villa Park, Birmingham | 36,000 | Due to Olympics; goals: C. Tevez 2, S. Aguero (Man City); R. Lampard, R. Lukaku (Chelsea). |
| 2013 | 11 Aug | Manchester United | Wigan Athletic | 2–0 | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 80,000 | Goals: R. Welbeck, D. Hernandez (Man Utd). |
| 2014 | 10 Aug | Manchester City | Arsenal | 0–3 | Arsenal | Wembley Stadium, London | 71,000 | Goals: A. Ramsey, A. Oxlade-Chamberlain, O. Giroud (Arsenal). |
| 2015 | 2 Aug | Chelsea | Arsenal | 1–0 | Arsenal | Wembley Stadium, London | 71,000 | Goal: A. Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal). |
| 2016 | 7 Aug | Leicester City | Manchester United | 1–2 | Manchester United | Wembley Stadium, London | 85,000 | Goals: J. Vardy (Leicester); J. Lingard, J. Mata (Man Utd). |
| 2017 | 13 Aug | Chelsea | Arsenal | 1–1 (4–1 pens) | Arsenal | Wembley Stadium, London | 84,000 | Goals: V. Moses (Chelsea); S. Kolasinac (Arsenal); Arsenal win on pens. |
| 2018 | 12 Aug | Manchester City | Chelsea | 2–0 | Manchester City | Wembley Stadium, London | 74,000 | Goals: A. Aguero 2 (Man City). |
| 2019 | 11 Aug | Manchester City | Liverpool | 1–1 (5–4 pens) | Manchester City | Wembley Stadium, London | 77,000 | Goals: R. Sterling (Man City); J. Matip (Liverpool); City win on pens. |
| 2020 | 29 Aug | Liverpool | Arsenal | 1–1 (5–4 pens) | Liverpool | Wembley Stadium, London | 0 | Behind closed doors due to COVID-19; goals: T. Minamino (Liverpool); P. Aubameyang (Arsenal); Liverpool win on pens. |
| 2021 | 29 Aug | Chelsea (runners-up) | Leicester City | 1–0 | Leicester City | Wembley Stadium, London | 39,000 | Goal: J. Maddison (Leicester); limited attendance. |
| 2022 | 6 Aug | Manchester City | Liverpool | 3–1 | Manchester City | King Power Stadium, Leicester | 31,000 | Due to Commonwealth Games; goals: K. De Bruyne, P. Foden, I. Gundogan (Man City); L. Diaz (Liverpool). |
| 2023 | 6 Aug | Manchester City | Arsenal | 1–1 (4–1 pens) | Arsenal | Wembley Stadium, London | 80,000 | Goals: K. De Bruyne (Man City); G. Saka (Arsenal); Arsenal win on pens. |
| 2024 | 10 Aug | Manchester City | Manchester United | 1–1 (7–6 pens) | Manchester City | Wembley Stadium, London | 82,000 | Goals: A. Garnacho (Man Utd); E. Haaland (Man City); City win on pens after extra time. |
| 2025 | 10 Aug | Liverpool | Crystal Palace | 2–2 (2–3 pens) | Crystal Palace | Wembley Stadium, London | 81,500 | Goals: M. Salah, D. Nunez (Liverpool); E. Eze, J. Mateta (Palace); Palace first win on pens. Dean Henderson saved two.[54][2] |
Wins by Club
Manchester United hold the record for the most FA Community Shield victories with 21 wins (including shared), from 1908 to 2011. Arsenal have 17, Liverpool 16. These include shared victories prior to penalty shootouts in 1991.[61][62] The following table ranks the top clubs by total wins as of the 2025 edition:| Rank | Club | Wins (including shared) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Manchester United | 21 |
| 2 | Arsenal | 17 |
| 3 | Liverpool | 16 |
| 4 | Everton | 9 |
| 5 | Manchester City | 7 |
| 6 | Tottenham Hotspur | 7 |
| 7 | Chelsea | 4 |
| 8 | Wolverhampton Wanderers | 4 |