CHELSEA have elected to freeze season ticket prices for the 2023/24 season.
Todd Boehly was warned by Chelsea Supporters’ Trust that the controversial plan to raise ticket prices could result in “irreversible toxicity” between fans and the club.
But with Chelsea suffering one of their worst-ever Premier League seasons, the club have moved to try and appease fans by freezing ticket prices for the 12th successive year.
This is despite an outlay of £600million in the last two transfer windows by Boehly’s Clearlake Capital owners.
A club statement said: “This season has not produced the results that any of us want.
“We know what we are working towards, but equally we know that will require hard work, determination and commitment.
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“We all want to see Chelsea back where we belong and to share many more winning moments together at Stamford Bridge.
“Adult general admission (GA) season tickets have been frozen since 2011/12, meaning since 2005, season ticket prices have fallen in real terms by 32 per cent.
“Like many industries, our costs have also risen significantly.
“Operating Stamford Bridge and delivering matchdays have been particularly subjected to inflationary pressures – up 31 per cent since 2018.
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“Equally, we are acutely aware of the rise in the cost of living and the impact that has on our supporters.
“Looking at all of these factors, the Board has decided to freeze GA season tickets for the 2023/24 season.”
A season ticket for seats near the halfway line in the West Stand of Stamford Bridge is an eye-watering £3,900, with less impressive views coming in at £2,900 and £2,250.
Elsewhere in the ground, the most expensive season ticket for individual adults is £940 in the West Upper, while the cheapest, in Matthew Harding Lower and The Shed Lower, is £750.
On the decision, CST vice-chair Dom Rosso said: “The Trust would like to place on record its thanks to Mr Boehly and his board for putting supporters first.
“We have campaigned vehemently that prices should be frozen to reflect the impact of the cost of living crisis, and the Trust is delighted that the club has responded positively to our representations on season ticket prices.”
This season sees Chelsea rooted in the bottom half of the table, currently lying in 11th place, some 21 points away from the top four.
Frank Lampard earned his first win as interim boss with a 3-1 win at Bournemouth last weekend following a six-game losing run.
In a bid to improve their fortunes next season, Chelsea are set to appoint former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino as the club’s new manager.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
