Why FA Cup kick off times are one minute late

Alex Young @alexwsyoung3 January 2020

Every FA Cup third round fixture this weekend will have their kick-off time delayed by one minute to raise awareness for mental health.

The Football Association has partnered with the Heads Up campaign and NHS's Every Mind Matters in a "historic first" to encourage fans to think about their wellbeing.

A short film, which is one minute long, narrated by Prince William and featuring the likes of Jesse Lingard, Frank Lampard and Dele Alli will be played before all 32 FA Cup matches and on TV coverage.

Supporters are being asked to "Take A Minute" to complete their Mind Plan, a few questions to see "how they are feeling".

FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said: "Whilst delaying kick-off times by 60 seconds is a simple idea, it provides a powerful platform for us and our Heads Up charity partners to deliver a really important message on mental health.

"We know that men in particular can be reluctant to talk about the subject, so it is important that we use football as a vehicle to stress the importance of mental fitness."

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