Southampton fans asked to plan travel ahead of FA Cup semi-final
Engineering work disrupts train services from Southampton to London
Southampton fans travelling to Wembley Stadium for the FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City on Saturday (25th April) are advised to find alternative modes of transport due to major engineering work affecting train services.
South Western Railway (SWR) has announced long-planned safety-critical work on the line between Woking and Basingstoke, which will disrupt train schedules over the weekend.
Fewer direct trains will operate between Southampton and London, with very limited direct services running and all diverted via Havant, extending journey times.
Southampton Football Club has sold out its allocation of 33,000 tickets for the match, and additional train services will not accommodate all fans.
Travellers are encouraged to make alternative arrangements to ensure reaching London in a timely manner.
Engineering work causes disruption
The engineering work, planned since 2024, includes refurbishing switches and crossings at Farnborough, power supply improvements around Woking, and signalling maintenance and vegetation clearance at Winchfield.
Reviews by SWR and Network Rail found no alternative dates until at least 2027, preventing rescheduling.
Plan ahead for travel
Supporters who must travel by train should allow extra travel time and plan thoroughly, as queuing systems will be in place at various stations including Southampton Central, Fareham, Havant, Clapham Junction, and London Waterloo.
Few trains will return to Southampton from London after 8pm, impacting fans if the match goes to extra time or penalties.
Stuart Meek, Chief Operating Officer for South Western Railway, expressed regret over the timing:
“We understand how much the semi-final means to supporters, but because the work is safety-critical and must be completed before the summer, we ask fans to consider alternative travel options.”
Andy Darbyshire from Southampton Football Club advises fans to check train times in advance and prepare for delays:
“Please allow plenty of time for your journey and be prepared not to board the first train you intend to take. Your support means everything to the players and staff — travel safely, and we look forward to seeing the red and white at Wembley.”
For detailed travel information, fans can visit South Western Railway's Planned Improvements page.