Chelsea Supporters Group (CSG) and Chelsea Supporters Club (CSC) note with interest the ticket price information released by Chelsea FC after months of intense speculation and concern.
We are broadly in agreement with the club’s position that prices must increase, with a challenging operating environment and after such a long freeze for season ticket holders (STHs) in particular. With that in mind, a general 5% rise for General Admission (GA) entry is acceptable, and a subsequent 8% leap for STHs due to a reduction in discounted prices for those supporters is perhaps understandable.
Concessionary prices remaining discounted is appreciated and helps to support the Premier League’s oldest STH base on average in what is still a tough financial climate for many. As we continue our relationship with the club, we hope to drive equitable treatment for all supporters at all ticket price points in the months and years ahead.
The statement outlining these changes could have used clearer language, however; many supporters were left to their own devices to interpret the overall impact on their pockets and, while it is commendable to outline the reasoning in the way it was presented, we will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure clarity exists for everyone.
Additionally, we have ongoing concerns about the diminishing availability of Member and GA tickets, with hospitality guests taking an increasing share of seats previously open to all, and more must be done to strike a better balance.
We await news of pricing for domestic cup and potential European club competitions with interest.