Key moments
In a significant development for football fans, Peter Bankes has been appointed as the referee for the Carabao Cup final, which will take place on March 22, 2026, at Wembley Stadium. This highly anticipated match will see Arsenal go head-to-head with Manchester City, two of the top teams in English football.
As the officiating referee, Bankes brings with him a wealth of experience, having officiated 22 Premier League matches during the 2025/26 season. In these matches, he has awarded six penalties and issued four red cards, showcasing his ability to manage high-stakes games. However, it is worth noting that Bankes has never officiated a match involving Liverpool or Everton, as he is banned from officiating games for these clubs due to his association with the Liverpool Football Association.
Bankes has a notable history with both Arsenal and Manchester City. He has officiated 14 matches for Arsenal, where the team has enjoyed considerable success, winning 10, drawing 1, and losing just 3. In contrast, his record with Manchester City includes 12 matches, resulting in 6 wins, 1 draw, and 5 losses for the team. Interestingly, he has not issued a red card or penalty in any of the matches he has officiated for Arsenal, while he has issued one red card in his matches with Manchester City.
The Carabao Cup final marks the first major piece of silverware available this season, making it a crucial event for both teams. Arsenal and Manchester City will be eager to secure victory, and the officiating of the match will be closely scrutinized by fans and analysts alike.
With VAR technology in operation for the final, John Brooks will serve as the video assistant referee. This addition aims to enhance the accuracy of officiating decisions during the match, providing an extra layer of scrutiny for key moments.
Bankes became eligible to officiate this final after Liverpool was eliminated from the Carabao Cup by Crystal Palace in the fourth round. This development has allowed him to take charge of a match that promises to be filled with excitement and tension, as both teams vie for the coveted trophy.
As the date approaches, reactions from fans and officials are expected to intensify, with many eager to see how Bankes will handle the pressure of such a significant match. The appointment of a referee can often stir debate, and Bankes’ previous records with the teams involved may add to the narrative leading up to the final.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional officiating assignments for Bankes following the Carabao Cup final, but his performance in this match could have implications for his future in high-profile games.