Southampton ferry operator promises tribute if Saints reach FA Cup Final

Red Funnel plans celebratory makeover of iconic funnel

Author: Maria GreenwoodPublished 24th Apr 2026

Southampton ferry operator Red Funnel has pledged to give one of its iconic funnels a stripey red and white makeover if Southampton FC advances to the FA Cup Final this weekend.

With excitement building as Saints prepare to face Manchester City in Saturday's semi-final at Wembley, Red Funnel is demonstrating its support for the team and its connection to the city.

Community support and promise

Red Funnel, known for its partnership with the Saints Foundation through community initiatives, aims to celebrate this potential sporting milestone with a visible tribute.

Fran Collins, Chief Executive of Red Funnel, expressed enthusiasm for the possibility:

“This weekend holds significant importance for Southampton, and if the team reaches the final, we want to commemorate it in a fun, visible way."

If Southampton FC secures its place in the final, one of Red Funnel's vessels will feature a stripey red and white funnel, symbolising a celebratory nod to the club's success.

Saints commemorate past success

As Southampton FC marks 50 years since its triumph in the 1976 FA Cup Final against Manchester United, the club plans to wear commemorative yellow shirts at Wembley.

With more than 33,000 fans expected to travel, the city is looking forward to what could be another landmark moment in the club's history.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.