Carabao Cup Adds Preliminary Round Amid European Surge

The Carabao Cup will introduce a preliminary round for the 2025-26 season because a record nine Premier League teams have qualified for European competitions, necessitating a reduction in the number of teams in the first two rounds. The preliminary round will feature Barnet and Oldham Athletic, promoted from the National League, and Accrington Stanley and Newport County, who placed 21st and 22nd in League Two, with regionalized fixtures: Accrington vs. Oldham and Barnet vs. Newport. Both the preliminary and first round draws will be held on June 26. Preliminary ties are scheduled for early August. This is the first preliminary round since 2011-12, reflecting the increase in English clubs in European tournaments. Supporters' reactions have been mixed, with some advocating for further reforms to enhance competition and prioritize the FA Cup.