The dress code for hospitality at Principality Stadium is generally smart-casual. Smart jeans and trainers are usually allowed, but sportswear, shorts, and ripped jeans are not.
FA Community Shield – Arsenal v Manchester City
★★★★★
Price range: £285.00 through £759.00
Principality Stadium – Sunday 16th August 2026 – 3pm Kick-off
The season starts with a huge clash as Arsenal and Manchester City go head-to-head for the FA Community Shield at the Principality Stadium. Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Erling Haaland and Rodri will all take centre stage as two of English football’s biggest clubs fight for the first silverware of the campaign.
After ending their 22-year wait for the Premier League title, Arsenal head into the new campaign full of confidence. Mikel Arteta’s side finally got over the line following several seasons of challenging for the crown, producing a memorable campaign that saw them finish top of the table for the first time since the famous Invincibles season.
Manchester City will be eager to begin a new era on a winning note. Following Pep Guardiola’s departure, Enzo Maresca takes charge of the reigning FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders, with City looking to make an immediate statement against the champions.
With two of English football’s strongest sides going head-to-head for the season’s first piece of silverware, expect a high-quality encounter packed with world-class talent and plenty of intrigue.
Experience the occasion in style with official Community Shield hospitality. Enjoy premium seating, first-class dining and exceptional service as Arsenal and Manchester City battle for the first trophy of the new season at the Principality Stadium
12:00 PM — Lounge opens. You can access the exclusive hospitality marquee or lounge located just moments from the Principality Stadium.
12:30 PM — Food and drinks are served. Guests enjoy a two-course buffet alongside a complimentary pre-match bar (including beers, wines, and soft drinks).
1:30 PM — Exclusive Q&A session featuring Ray Parlour and John Hartson providing pre-match insights and analysis.
2:30 PM — Make your way to your premium match seat (typically in a prime halfway-line location) inside the Principality Stadium.
3:00 PM — Kick-off: Arsenal vs. Manchester City.
4:45 PM — Final Whistle: Return to the Cardiff Arms Park Lounge to celebrate or reflect on the match action with post-match drinks.
6:30 PM — Lounge closes
Arsenal vs Manchester City Hospitality – FA Community Shield at the Principality Stadium
The FA Community Shield provides the first opportunity to see England’s leading clubs compete for silverware ahead of the new season, and this year’s clash between Arsenal and Manchester City promises to be a fitting occasion.
Arsenal arrive in Cardiff as Premier League champions after ending a 22-year wait to reclaim the title. While they narrowly missed out on Champions League glory and fell short in the domestic cups, their league triumph represented the culmination of years of progress under Arteta.
Manchester City begin a new chapter under Enzo Maresca following the departure of Pep Guardiola. Although City finished second in the Premier League, they still added both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup to their trophy cabinet. Erling Haaland once again led the attack with another prolific season, while Antoine Semenyo made an immediate impact after arriving midway through the campaign.
The Community Shield often offers an early glimpse of what to expect from the season ahead, with new signings on display. As Arsenal look to continue their momentum and Manchester City aim to start life under Maresca with silverware, the Principality Stadium provides the stage for another fascinating contest between two of the country’s biggest clubs.
Enjoy every moment of the action with official Community Shield hospitality at the Principality Stadium. Combining outstanding seats, premium hospitality and exceptional service, it’s the perfect way to experience the opening showpiece of the English football season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 FA Community Shield?
The FA Community Shield takes place on Sunday 16th August 2026 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
What time does the Community Shield kick-off?
Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00.
Where is the Community Shield being played?
The 2026 FA Community Shield will be played at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales.
How do I get to the Principality Stadium by train?
Cardiff Central Station is the closest railway station to the Principality Stadium, located just a five-minute walk away. The station offers direct services from many major UK cities, making it one of the easiest stadiums to reach by rail.
How long is the train from London to Cardiff?
Direct services from London Paddington to Cardiff Central typically take around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the service.
How long is the train from Manchester to Cardiff?
Direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Central usually take between 3 hours 10 minutes and 3 hours 30 minutes.
Is parking available at the Principality Stadium?
There is no dedicated public parking at the stadium. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport or one of Cardiff city centre’s many public car parks, all within walking distance of the venue.
What hospitality package is available for the Community Shield?
Guests can enjoy premium hospitality in the Cardiff Arms Park Lounge, located just a short walk from the Principality Stadium. The package includes:
- Exclusive access to the Cardiff Arms Park Lounge
- Premium middle-tier seat in the halfway line area
- Two-course informal buffet before kick-off
- Complimentary pre-match bar serving beer, wine and soft drinks
- Exclusive pre-match Q&A with Arsenal legend Ray Parlour and Wales legend John Hartson
- Official matchday programme
- Cash bar available after the match
Where are the hospitality seats located?
Your match ticket is located in the middle tier around the halfway line, providing an excellent view of the action.
Is the hospitality lounge for both sets of supporters?
Yes. The Cardiff Arms Park Lounge is a neutral hospitality facility, welcoming both Arsenal and Manchester City supporters. Please note that the match seats are situated on the Manchester City side of the halfway line.
Are premium match tickets available for Arsenal and Manchester City supporters?
Yes. Official premium match tickets are available in both the Arsenal end (Block M25) and Manchester City end (Block M35) at the Principality Stadium. These tickets provide access to your chosen supporters’ area, with food and drink available to purchase from the stadium concourse. Mobile tickets will be delivered electronically 48–72 hours before kick-off.
Are food and drinks included?
Yes. Guests will receive a two-course informal buffet before the match, along with a complimentary bar serving beer, wine and soft drinks before kick-off. A cash bar will also be available after the match.
Will there be any special guest speakers?
Yes. Hospitality guests will enjoy an exclusive pre-match Q&A featuring former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour and former Wales international John Hartson, who will share stories and insights before kick-off.
Why book Community Shield hospitality with Eventmasters?
Official Community Shield hospitality gives you the chance to enjoy premium seating, excellent food and drink, exclusive guest speakers and a relaxed pre-match atmosphere, creating an unforgettable way to experience the opening showpiece of the English football season.
Interested in our FA Community Shield hospitality – Priority Alerts:
Community Shield
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