The Premier League has sought clarification from Chelsea regarding its association with ticket reselling platforms, following controversy over Todd Boehly’s part in Vivid Seats.
Boehly, who holds dual roles as a director and investor in Vivid, is branded as an “unlicensed ticket seller” by the league. Besides, he owns a 13% share in Chelsea Football Club.
The platform Vivid Seats features Chelsea games, with some tickets from last season’s matches at Stamford Bridge fetching as much as £20,000. The operation of the site is prohibited in the United Kingdom, although it is allowed to function abroad.
The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust has implored the Premier League to “act and investigate” the situation, which they perceive as a “breach of trust” and a “clear conflict of interest,” as stated in an open letter released in March.
Richard Masters, the Premier League CEO, stated that they are in talks with Chelsea regarding this ongoing issue during a Football Supporters’ Association event last week.
The Supporters’ Trust has additionally submitted proof against the American company to the government’s Department of Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS).
Boehly, Chelsea, and Vivid have been approached for further remarks.
Stanley Chia, CEO of Vivid, mentioned economic and political instability as factors affecting the ticketing market, as the company’s stock price saw a decrease of 61% this year.
While Chelsea has recently vowed to tackle ticket scalping, they did not specifically mention Vivid or other ticket reselling platforms. However, the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust expressed optimism about this pledge.
Concerns have been raised about a muted atmosphere at Stamford Bridge, a concern highlighted by former manager Mauricio Pochettino and reiterated by current head coach Enzo Maresca amidst trials of a singing section in the Conference League last season.
As of now, Chelsea is actively participating in the Club World Cup held in the United States and is set to challenge ES Tunis in Philadelphia on Tuesday night.
