The FA has recognised this unique achievement by unveiling a new logo incorporating the 125 figure, which will be used throughout this season.

The magic and heritage of The Cup remains a fantastic and attractive prospect to millions across the globe. Each year minnows are pitted against giants; there are shock wins and high drama.

And the competition will return to its spiritual home in 2006 - The Final is set to open the magnificent new 90,000 seat Wembley Stadium.

The FA Cup is the oldest and most prestigious domestic cup competition in the world. The first competition in 1871-72 had 15 entries with Wanderers beating Royal Engineers 1-0 at Kennington Oval. Last year Arsenal beat Manchester United in a dramatic penalty shoot out.

Domestically, The FA Cup is prospering - last year’s television figures were some of the best ever and 674 teams this year entered the competition, a new record.

The Cup is huge on an international stage, too - May's Final between Arsenal and Manchester United was watched by over 300 million people worldwide and this year the global interest will be even higher with 169 countries receiving the match.

Already records have been broken; As well as the record 674 entries there was an extraordinary 31 penalty kick shoot out in the Preliminary Round, the first all-Asian teams played in the competition and a father and son officiated in the same match.

There have been great final moments throughout the history of the competition from the 1923 White Horse Final through to Jimmy Montgomery’s double save for Sunderland in 1973 and the fastest ever goal scored by Roberto Di Matteo in 1997.

A special ceremony will commence before The Final this season with great players from past and present in attendance as well as an amazing array of dignitaries and VIPs. The FA’s new honorary president Prince William is expected to attend as guest of honour.

FA chief executive Brian Barwick has already seen action in two rounds of this season's qualifying competition and is looking forward to the First Round Proper, which will be drawn at Soho Square on Saturday evening. 

“I’ve had a fantastic time visiting all manner of different grounds this season and I’m looking forward to it continuing in November,” he said.

“It is important to remember that the road to Wembley does not just start in November but at the Extra-Preliminary Round back in August.

"Hundreds of teams turned out and those still in the competition at this stage have now played six games and earned themselves over £20,000.

“I’ve met many members of the football family through The FA Cup and witnessed some excellent games. As last year and this season so far have showed - it has lost none of its sparkle and neither has the trophy.”

Log on to TheFA.com on Saturday evening at 5.10pm to watch the First Round draw live...