Answer: The 2025‑26 Scottish Cup kicks off in early August with preliminary matches featuring Lowland, Highland and junior clubs. By the end of September the field narrows to 64 teams, and the Fourth Round – where Premiership giants like Aberdeen, Celtic and Rangers join – is scheduled for the weekend of 23‑24 September. All dates, venues and broadcast details are now publicly available.
Complete 2025‑26 Scottish Cup Schedule
The Scottish Football Association released the full calendar, outlining every round from the opening ties in August to the final at Hampden Park on 27 May 2026. Early fixtures test squad depth for top‑flight clubs, while lower‑tier teams eye lucrative TV exposure and prize money.
Early Rounds: August to September
- First Round – Early August: Regional qualifiers from the Lowland, Highland and junior leagues.
- Second & Third Rounds – Late August to September: Winners progress, mixing lower‑league sides with non‑league clubs.
- Fourth Round – Weekend of 23‑24 September: All Premiership clubs enter, creating marquee matchups.
Fourth‑Round Weekend: Premier Clubs and Giant‑Killers
The Fourth Round returns to its traditional weekend slot, delivering a showcase of Scottish football’s breadth. Defending champions Aberdeen lead the entry of 16 Premiership teams, while two sixth‑tier clubs – Camelon Juniors and Darvel – add the classic “David vs Goliath” intrigue.
Notable Fourth‑Round Matchups
- Aberdeen vs. Camelon Juniors – A potential giant‑killing clash.
- Celtic vs. Highland League opponent – Early‑season high‑profile tie.
- Rangers vs. lower‑tier challenger – A test of squad rotation.
- Hearts vs. Darvel – Another opportunity for a surprise upset.
How to Watch the Scottish Cup
Fans have multiple options to follow the competition, both on television and via digital platforms.
TV Broadcasts
- BBC Scotland – Live coverage of high‑profile ties, including Celtic’s early‑round match and Aberdeen’s Fourth‑Round game.
- Premier Sports – Selected Fourth‑Round fixtures and later‑stage matches, offering multi‑camera coverage.
Live Streaming Options
The official partner’s online portal streams every match with real‑time statistics, player tracking and interactive polls. The companion mobile app provides push notifications for goals, red cards and live scores, ensuring fans never miss a moment.
Impact of the Fixture List on Scottish Football
Premiership clubs must balance cup ambitions with league commitments and upcoming European qualifiers, managing squad rotation to avoid fatigue. For lower‑tier teams, televised ties bring significant revenue—gate receipts, broadcast royalties and prize money—that can fund academy development, stadium improvements and community projects.
Key Dates to Remember
- First Round: Early August (regional qualifiers)
- Second & Third Rounds: Late August – September
- Fourth Round: Weekend of 23‑24 September
- Quarter‑Finals: Early November
- Semi‑Finals: Late January (neutral venues)
- Final: 27 May 2026 at Hampden Park (live on BBC Scotland & Premier Sports)
