AST CALL FOR FROZEN TICKET PRICES

AST CALL FOR FROZEN TICKET PRICES

The Arsenal Supporters’ Trust (AST) has urged the club to freeze ticket prices and introduce a 19-game Premier League season ticket for fans. With the current season ticket structure consisting of 19 Premier League games and four Champions League matches, the AST believes that a new ticketing option would benefit fans by lowering the upfront cost and making it easier for those who find it difficult to attend evening fixtures.

The current season tickets range from £1,073 for the cheapest to £2,050.50 for the most expensive adult ticket, with concessions of up to 50% available for juniors, seniors, and disabled access members. There is also a 25% concession for young adults. In response to increasing concerns over affordability, the AST proposed a new ticket that would cover only the 19 Premier League games, allowing fans to purchase tickets specifically for league matches without the additional cost of cup fixtures.

The AST argues that this move would ease the financial burden on supporters who are unable to commit to all games, particularly those who struggle with evening fixtures. Furthermore, by offering a 19-game option, the AST believes it would help increase the availability of tickets for silver and red members, who would have greater access to seats for cup matches.

The proposal has been met with positive feedback from the club, with the AST stating that the club has recognized the potential benefits of such an option and is seriously considering it. They are hopeful that the 19-game season ticket will be introduced for the 2025-26 season, pending further discussions.

Ticketing issues are an ongoing topic of discussion within the Arsenal Advisory Board, which includes elected representatives from different supporter groups. The board meets with club officials, including executive vice-chair Tim Lewis, managing director Richard Garlick, and chief commercial officer Juliet Slot, to discuss various fan-related matters, including ticket pricing and accessibility.

Along with the introduction of the 19-game season ticket, the AST has also called for a freeze on general ticket prices for the upcoming season and for continued concessionary ticketing, particularly for young adults, seniors, and those with disabilities. The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) has supported this effort through their “Stop Exploiting Loyalty” campaign, which advocates for fair ticket prices across the league.

Despite the ongoing discussions, the AST has not yet felt the need to protest, citing positive conversations with the club. However, the trust continues to press for ticketing solutions that prioritize fan accessibility and affordability as Arsenal aims to balance the growing financial pressures of the modern game with the interests of its loyal supporters.