The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust (CST) has called on the Premier League to “take action and investigate” Todd Boehly’s involvement with the ticket resale site Vivid Seats. In an open letter to the Premier League’s chief executive, Richard Masters, the CST restates a previous concern that Boehly’s role as a director and investor in Vivid Seats—while holding a 13% stake in Chelsea—represents a “breach of trust” and poses “a clear conflict of interest.”
The letter also points out that Vivid Seats is listed as an “unauthorized ticketing website” by the Premier League, allowing overseas fans to purchase tickets unofficially, ranging from £90 to £20,000. The CST has also submitted evidence to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) regarding the American company.
The CST’s letter states: “Many CST members are clearly outraged by this connection and have written to us.” It continues, noting that Boehly’s involvement with Vivid Seats “undermines efforts by Chelsea FC, the Premier League, and the Metropolitan Police to combat ticket touting.”
The group adds that despite direct contact with Boehly and offers to discuss concerns publicly or privately, neither Boehly nor his representatives have responded, while tickets continue to be listed on Vivid Seats.
Chelsea’s official website makes it clear that ticket touting is illegal, and any tickets purchased unofficially will be “invalid,” meaning fans would be “refused entry to the stadium.”
While Vivid Seats is legally allowed to operate outside the UK, it is prohibited for UK users. However, BBC Sport has confirmed that UK-based users can still purchase tickets through the site, despite a pop-up message warning that “tickets for EPL matches are not currently available for purchase in your location.”
Chelsea, Boehly’s representatives, and Vivid have been contacted for comment by BBC Sport.
The CST’s letter, which has received support from the Football Supporters’ Association, expressed encouragement that the club is taking action against ticket touting. An email to season ticket holders outlines several measures being implemented, though it does not specifically mention Vivid Seats or other resellers.
Concerns about a “flat” atmosphere at Stamford Bridge have been raised by both former manager Mauricio Pochettino and current head coach Enzo Maresca this season. Chelsea plans to trial a new singing section during their upcoming Europa Conference League match against Legia Warsaw next month.
