Premier League Seeks Clarification from Chelsea Regarding Boehly's Involvement in Ticket Reselling

The Premier League has initiated communication with Chelsea to request clarification regarding the club's relationship with ticket resellers, particularly in light of Todd Boehly's association with Vivid Seats. Boehly, who holds a 13% ownership stake in Chelsea, is not only a director and investor in Vivid Seats but is also linked to the unauthorized ticket reselling platform.

Chelsea matches have been listed on the Vivid Seats platform, with tickets for games at Stamford Bridge reportedly reaching prices as high as £20,000 last season. While Vivid Seats is not permitted to operate within the United Kingdom, it is allowed to function overseas.

The Chelsea Supporters' Trust has raised concerns about this situation, labeling it as a "breach of trust" and a "clear conflict of interest." In response to these allegations, the Premier League CEO, Richard Masters, confirmed ongoing discussions with Chelsea regarding the matter during a recent Football Supporters' Association event.

In March, the Supporters' Trust urged the Premier League to investigate the situation, and it has also provided evidence against Vivid Seats to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). Chelsea, Todd Boehly, and Vivid Seats have been approached for further comments on the matter.

Vivid Seats CEO Stanley Chia acknowledged the challenges faced by the ticketing market, citing "economic and political volatility" as contributing factors to a 61% drop in the company's share price this year. Chelsea has pledged to address ticket touting issues, a move welcomed by the CST, although the club did not specifically mention Vivid Seats or other ticket resellers.

Concerns have been raised about the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge, prompting discussions about introducing a singing section in the Conference League. Chelsea is currently competing in the Club World Cup in the United States and is set to play ES Tunis in Philadelphia on Tuesday night.