More than 100 fan organisations across the country have urged Premier League clubs to freeze home ticket prices for the next two seasons, citing concerns over accessibility and affordability for supporters. The call comes after a majority of top-flight clubs raised ticket prices over the past two campaigns, sparking widespread fan protests.
According to reports, 19 of the 20 clubs increased prices for the 2024-25 season, while 13 implemented further hikes for the current campaign. In response, 116 supporter groups have issued a public appeal demanding a halt on further increases for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 seasons.
“Rising prices are making it harder for regular fans, especially younger generations and working-class communities, to attend matches,” reads a letter published on the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) website.
The letter also calls on clubs to share transparent data on ticket pricing and policies, and to engage in meaningful discussions with supporters over future pricing strategies.
Fan Concerns Over Matchday Costs and Kick-Off Times
Supporters highlight that escalating ticket costs are compounded by unpredictable kick-off times designed to satisfy television broadcasters, making matchdays increasingly difficult to plan for.
“Matchdays have never been harder to plan for, or more expensive to attend,” the FSA statement notes.
The letter criticises the ongoing “arms race” over ticket prices, arguing that record-breaking transfer fees, soaring agent wages, and £3bn transfer windows should not be funded by supporters through ticket price hikes. Instead, the document advocates for a more balanced approach that ensures football remains accessible.
The letter also praises the existing £30 cap on away tickets as a successful example of regulated pricing that benefits fans while maintaining financial sustainability.
Chelsea Supporters Trust Backs Price Freeze
Among the signatories, the Chelsea Supporters Trust emphasised the need for clubs to prioritise accessibility:
“After two consecutive years of above-inflation ticket hikes that have hit supporters hard, the message is clear: Chelsea must now halt further home ticket price increases. By co-signing this statement, we are standing up for a Stamford Bridge that remains accessible, inclusive, and alive with the supporters who make Chelsea what it is—today and for generations to come.”
Premier League Scheduling Updates
In related news, the Premier League has announced that the 2026-27 season will start later than usual, kicking off on Saturday, 22 August 2026, and concluding on Sunday, 30 May 2027. The delayed start and finish aim to address a congested global football calendar and safeguard player welfare.
Next season’s schedule will also seek to avoid clashes with UEFA club competitions wherever possible, and ensure that no two match rounds during the Christmas and New Year period occur within 60 hours of each other. Additionally, the September international break will be extended to allow national teams to play four matches instead of two between 21 September and 6 October.
Looking Ahead
The FSA is scheduled to meet with Premier League officials and fan representatives in December to discuss the contents of the letter and explore practical solutions. With ticket price hikes increasingly under scrutiny, the discussions could shape fan accessibility and matchday experiences for seasons to come.
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