Chelsea have sparked controversy by introducing what is believed to be the highest-priced match ticket in Premier League history.
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Chelsea demand exorbitant price for ‘Dugout Club' ticketsFans slam the decision to charge £5,000Urge management to slash general admission pricesGetty/GOALWHAT HAPPENED?
Todd Boehly and Co. have drawn the ire of Chelsea faithful after setting a staggering price of £5,000 ($6,300) for fans seeking a seat behind Mauricio Pochettino's home dugout during the upcoming clash against Manchester United in April.
This exorbitant ticket cost is associated with Chelsea's 'Dugout Club', a premium hospitality package introduced following the club's change of ownership. The announcement of this unprecedented price hike has elicited strong reactions from supporters and officials alike.
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Dom Rosso, vice-chair of Chelsea’s Supporters’ Trust, expressed alarm at the £5,000 ticket, reflecting the concerns of many fans over potential increases in season-ticket prices.
Rosso said, per : “£5,000 is an alarming amount to spend on a ticket and is totally unaffordable for your ‘average football supporter’ – it is really poor that these influential seats behind the bench are being filled by corporate visitors.
“More and more general admission seats at Stamford Bridge are being made unavailable and have been transferred to Club Chelsea – many fans feel like the club is prioritising its Club Chelsea guests over loyal supporters. Record-breaking premium pricing has clearly increased matchday revenue and we sincerely hope that this additional income will be considered when deciding future general admission season ticket prices.”
Similarly, officials from rival Premier League clubs have voiced shock at Chelsea's pricing strategy.
“There cannot be a more expensive matchday ticket in the League than £5,000," a source told whereas an official from a Premier League rival was "wow-ed" by the price.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Despite the hefty price tag, Chelsea's aims are to enhance the matchday experience for fans opting for the 'Dugout Club' package. The club promises luxury padded seating behind the home dugout, offering spectators a unique vantage point just meters away from Pochettino and his team. Additionally, ticket holders will have the opportunity to greet players upon their arrival at Stamford Bridge, witness the pre-match warm-up from the pitchside, and enjoy exclusive 'Club Chelsea' hospitality before and after the game.
DID YOU KNOW?
The eye-watering cost of Chelsea's match tickets contrasts with pricing strategies employed by other Premier League clubs. Manchester City previously held the record for the highest premium matchday price, with their 'Autograph' package priced at £4,200 ($5,300). Meanwhile, West Ham United offers a £4,000 ($5,1000) ticket inclusive of a helicopter ride over the London skyline, and Fulham's non-executive season ticket is priced at £3,000 ($3,800).
In addition to concerns over affordability, Chelsea's ownership has faced criticism for using the 'Dugout Club' seats for promotional purposes. Recent incidents, including the promotion of the film Argylle and the installation of a bed for a supporter during a women's game, have drawn scrutiny and further fuelled debate over the club's priorities.
