Arsenal handed suspended fine over FA Cup ticketing rule breach

British media say Arsenal gave 8,000 tickets to United, citing safety

Football - FA Cup - Third Round - Arsenal v Manchester United - Emirates Stadium, London, Britain - Jan 12, 2025 General view of merchandise for sale outside the stadium before the match Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge/File Photo

Arsenal have been given a suspended fine of 500,000 pounds ($664,000) for breaching ticketing rules for their FA Cup third round tie at home to Manchester United in January, the FA said on Friday.

Arsenal, who lost on penalties after a 1-1 draw on Jan 12, did not provide the required full allocation of 9,000 tickets for United fans, the FA said in a statement.

British media said Arsenal had allocated only 8,000 tickets for United supporters, citing safety concerns.

"The fine is suspended pending Arsenal FC’s confirmation that it is able to comply with this requirement for the 2025-26 FA Cup third round and continued compliance for any further rounds," the FA added.