Arsenal fans call on club to reconsider planned hike in ticket prices

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The Arsenal Supporters’ Trust (AST) plan to issue majority shareholder Stan Kroenke with a letter advising against an increase in the price of season tickets.

The letter raises issue with any changes being made while both fans and the team face a period of uncertainty, particularly with the current economic climate and the club still in an offer period following Kroenke’s takeover.

The cost of season tickets at the Emirates have been frozen since 2006, yet there has been a rise of six-and-a-half per cent imposed on 7,000 executive club level seats, while the club’s season tickets prices already start at £893, amongst the highest in the world.

In the statement addressed to chief executive Ivan Gazidis and a number of other directors, including Kroenke, the AST have raised their grievances directly with the club’s hierarchy.

“The wider economic climate means that many fans are suffering,” the statement reads. “They can no longer afford the high cost of tickets, and we have been approached by many concerned members who tell us that accepting a price rise is no longer a matter of choice, but will force their exclusion as their finances just can’t stretch to meet it.

“A further reason to postpone the rise is the uncertainty caused by the takeover by Kroenke Sports Enterprises KSE. I am sure you appreciate the perception that there will be if the price increase is implemented without the guarantee that it is not for the benefit of shareholders.

“If custodianship means anything it is to look after the long-term interests of the club and demonstrate the same loyalty and appreciation of supporters as those same supporters show to the club throughout their lives.”

The AST believe the club should aim to make up the £50 million gap in commercial revenues between themselves and Manchester United.