FA Community Shield Relocated from Wembley to Cardiff Because of Concert Dates

The Wembley venue is reserved for a run of performances by Canadian artist The Weeknd during that period.

The Premier League campaign is set to start during the August 22 weekend, featuring the Community Shield match on August 16.

This game marks a return to the Welsh rugby headquarters, the first such event there since 2006.

"We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming the FA Community Shield back to Principality Stadium," stated Gavin Marshall, the chief financial and operating officer for the Welsh Rugby Union.

"This fixture has a special place in the stadium's history and to be hosting it again for the first time in 20 years is a tremendously proud moment for everyone here."

With a seating capacity exceeding 74,000, the stadium earlier accommodated the Community Shield six times from 2001 until 2006, coinciding with Wembleys renovation work.

Shifting the event to Cardiff might influence business aspects, given Wembleys larger 90,000 capacity and its role as the FAs primary venue, which typically generates higher earnings from attendance and premium services.

Certain fan organisations have praised the choice, describing Cardiff as "one of the best sporting venues", although some have challenged the rationale for holding the match beyond Englands borders, highlighting potential increases in travel and lodging expenses for supporters.

"What's the point of having it in a different UEFA member nation?... They should have had it at different locations around England," one supporter commented on X.