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Fans Push FA to Shift Cup Semi-Finals From Wembley

4/28/2026

24 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Fans and pundits are urging the FA to move FA Cup semi-finals away from Wembley.
Manchester City supporters have made over two dozen Wembley trips in the past decade, each costing thousands.
Southampton fans say a Wembley semi-final feels less special after recent final, while critics argue it dilutes the final’s prestige.
The FA may keep Wembley because semi-finals generate revenue, though alternatives such as Villa Park have been suggested.

History

Historical Context

On 28 April 1923 the original Wembley hosted the White Horse Final, where more than 200,000 spectators packed the 125,000-capacity ground, leading the FA to reserve Wembley for finals and rotate semi-finals to venues like Villa Park and Old Trafford. Today Manchester City and Southampton fans claim Wembley semi-finals raise travel costs and erode atmosphere, renewing calls for neutral venues.

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Story summary

Fans and pundits are urging the FA to move FA Cup semi-finals away from Wembley.
Manchester City supporters have made over two dozen Wembley trips in the past decade, each costing thousands.
Southampton fans say a Wembley semi-final feels less special after recent final, while critics argue it dilutes the final’s prestige.
The FA may keep Wembley because semi-finals generate revenue, though alternatives such as Villa Park have been suggested.

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