Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Thu 9 April 2026 19:40, UK

Keith Hackett has called for the FA to buck up their ideas as a result of how long it has taken Leeds United supporters to learn of the date for their FA Cup semi-final.

Leeds secured their spot in the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time in 39 years with a win over West Ham, with fans eager to get their hands on tickets.

However, prices for hospitality packages have since been revealed, leaving Whites supporters raging, and for good reason.

Leeds supporters will have to pay almost three times as much for a hospitality package in comparison to what either Man City or Southampton fans would have to pay for their clash.

But that isn’t the only thing that has caused issues ahead of Leeds’ trip to Wembley, with supporters left frustrated by how long the scheduling has taken.

FA Cup semi-final timeline ridiculed by former Premier League referee

It was only confirmed on Thursday afternoon that Leeds’ FA Cup encounter with Chelsea will take place on Sunday, 26 April, which is just 17 days from now.

That has left supporters scrambling to make travel arrangements, much to the annoyance of former Premier League referee, Hackett, who has called for the FA to buck up their ideas.

When speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, he said: “Chaos and frankly unacceptable to treat fans in this way. The schedule of these semi-finals should be in place immediately after the draw has taken place.

“Leeds fans have to organise travel and accommodation plans, whatever their requirements are.

“There is always a scramble for tickets, and sadly, many loyal fans will have to tune in to television rather than taking that walk to Wembley Stadium, feeling the history and being able to create long-lasting memories.

“Come on, the FA sort this out.”

Chelsea already have advantage ahead of FA Cup semi-final

Not only do Chelsea supporters have little to worry about in terms of travel, but they will also have little to worry about in terms of their team’s fatigue.

The Blues face Brighton a day before Leeds take on Bournemouth, while also having an extra three-day break after the game at Wembley.

It’s yet another scheduling decision that has caused uproar for Elland Road supporters, and once again, for very good reason.