The FA Community Shield is an annual football match in England that marks the unofficial start of the domestic season. Organized by the Football Association (FA), the fixture is typically contested between the winners of the previous season’s Premier League and FA Cup. If the same team wins both competitions — known as “the double” — the league runners-up take part instead.
History and Purpose
The match was first held in 1908, replacing the Sheriff of London Charity Shield. Originally, it served as a curtain-raiser for the new football season, with proceeds going to charitable causes. This tradition continues today, with money raised distributed to community projects and grassroots football programs across England.
Timing and Venue
The FA Community Shield is usually played in early August, just a week before the Premier League kicks off. Wembley Stadium in London has been the traditional venue for the event since 1974, apart from occasional relocations due to stadium renovations or special circumstances.
Significance in English Football
While some see it as more of a friendly than a competitive trophy, the Community Shield still carries prestige. It gives clubs a chance to showcase new signings, test tactics, and set the tone for the season ahead. For fans, it’s the first opportunity to see their team in action in a competitive setting after the summer break.
Format and Rules
The match is a single 90-minute game. If the scores are level at full time, the winner is decided by a penalty shootout — no extra time is played. The winning team lifts the silver shield, a trophy that has become an iconic symbol in English football.
Notable Records
- Manchester United hold the record for most Community Shield wins.
- The fixture has often produced memorable moments, from high-scoring thrillers to dramatic shootouts.
Community Impact
Beyond the pitch, the match serves a bigger purpose — supporting charitable causes. The FA distributes the game’s profits to various community initiatives, reflecting the event’s long-standing role in giving back to the sport’s grassroots.