The 2016–17 FA Cup (also known as the FA Challenge Cup) is the 136th edition of the oldest recognised football tournament in the world. It is sponsored by Emirates, and known as the Emirates FA Cup for sponsorship purposes. It will begin with the Extra Preliminary Round on 6 August 2016, and will conclude with the final in May 2017. The winner will qualify for the 2017–18 UEFA Europa League group stage. Premier League side Manchester United are the defending champions.