JD Welsh Cup: A new chapter begins in the historic competition

The JD Welsh Cup returns this weekend, kicking off with the First Qualifying Round in what promises to be another unforgettable campaign. 

As one of the world’s oldest football cup competitions, the magic of the JD Welsh Cup continues to capture the imagination of clubs and communities across the country.

This year, a record-breaking 272 clubs have entered the tournament, setting the stage for a truly epic journey. 

The First Qualifying Round features teams from the grassroots up, while the 17 lowest-ranked Tier 2 sides join the action in Round 1. The top 15 Tier 2 clubs and all 12 JD Cymru Premier sides will then enter at Round 2 — when the stakes really begin to rise.

Last season, The New Saints lifted the cup for the 10th time at Rodney Parade, reinforcing their dominance in Welsh football. But as always in the JD Welsh Cup, history is only a guide — anything can happen.

To build the excitement, fans can now relive the drama of last season’s 2024–25 JD Welsh Cup campaign with an exclusive new documentary, streaming now on RedWall+.

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This feature-length film offers a front-row seat to the highs and heartbreaks of the tournament — from the gritty qualifying rounds to the tension-filled final. It captures stunning goals, giant-killings, and the raw emotion of Welsh football in its purest form.

The documentary includes in-depth interviews with players, coaches, and club staff, providing unique insights into the passion that fuels every minute of cup action. 

From the fiercely contested Battle of the Cwmamans, to the electric Ynys Môn derby between Llangefni Town and Gaerwen FC, the film shines a spotlight on the rivalries that make this competition so special.

One of the standout moments features Cymru manager Craig Bellamy, who attended Caerau Ely’s home quarter-final clash with Connah’s Quay Nomads at Cwrt yr Ala. 

Bellamy also gives a candid interview on the rise of Connor Roberts, the now Caernarfon Town goalkeeper whose exceptional season with The New Saints earned him a surprise call-up to the national team in June.

With behind-the-scenes access, dramatic footage, and heartfelt stories, this documentary captures the spirit of a competition that unites communities, fuels dreams, and proves that in the Welsh Cup, anything is possible.