The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust (CST) has called on the Premier League to conduct a thorough investigation into Todd Boehly’s connections with the ticket resale platform, Vivid Seats. In an open letter addressed to the Premier League’s chief executive, Richard Masters, the CST raises concerns that Boehly’s involvement with Vivid Seats—both as a director and investor—while simultaneously owning a 13% stake in Chelsea Football Club, represents a serious “breach of trust” and creates a “clear conflict of interest.”
The letter highlights that Vivid Seats has been classified as an “unauthorized ticketing website” by the Premier League. This designation is particularly significant because it allows international fans to buy Chelsea match tickets through unofficial channels, often at drastically different price points, ranging from £90 to as much as £20,000. Seeking further action, the CST has submitted evidence to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), urging them to scrutinize the American company’s operations.
Reflecting the frustrations of Chelsea fans, the CST states that many of its members have expressed deep concern over Boehly’s affiliation with Vivid Seats and have reached out to the supporters’ group for clarity. The CST argues that Boehly’s ties to the resale platform actively undermine efforts by Chelsea FC, the Premier League, and the Metropolitan Police to combat ticket touting and unauthorized reselling.
The supporters’ trust also points out that despite multiple efforts to engage directly with Boehly and his representatives—whether through private discussions or public appeals—there has been no response. Meanwhile, Chelsea match tickets continue to be available for resale on Vivid Seats, raising questions about the effectiveness of regulatory oversight and club policies regarding ticket sales.
Chelsea FC’s official website explicitly states that ticket touting is illegal, warning that any tickets purchased through unauthorized sellers will be considered “invalid.” Fans who attempt to enter Stamford Bridge with such tickets risk being denied access to the stadium. While Vivid Seats is a legally operating company outside of the UK, its services are restricted for users within the country. However, despite these restrictions, BBC Sport has confirmed that UK-based individuals are still able to purchase tickets through the platform. Although a pop-up message on the website informs users that “tickets for EPL matches are not currently available for purchase in your location,” transactions are reportedly still being processed.
BBC Sport has reached out to Chelsea FC, Todd Boehly’s representatives, and Vivid Seats for official comments on the controversy.
The CST’s letter, which has gained the backing of the Football Supporters’ Association, acknowledges Chelsea FC’s recent steps to tackle ticket touting. A recent email to season ticket holders outlined measures the club is implementing to curb illegal resales. However, the message notably avoids any mention of Vivid Seats or similar secondary ticket platforms.
Additionally, concerns about the matchday atmosphere at Stamford Bridge have been growing, with both former Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino and the club’s newly appointed head coach, Enzo Maresca, commenting on the lack of energy from the stands. In an attempt to improve fan engagement, Chelsea FC plans to introduce a trial singing section during their upcoming Europa Conference League match against Legia Warsaw next month.
