Liverpool Fans Warn Club Owners Over Ticket Price Protests
Liverpool fans have issued a strong warning to the club’s owners, stating that planned protests over ticket prices will “grow and escalate.” The supporters are urging others not to spend money at Anfield and to delay renewing season tickets until closer to the deadline on May 25. This is seen as a way to “send a message” to American owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG).
The club recently announced price increases for the next three seasons, which has led to widespread anger among fans. This comes after the club reported record revenues earlier this year, with around £8 million last season after tax. In justifying the decision, the club highlighted that matchday operating costs have risen by 85% since the 2016-17 season, along with “continued rises in the cost of football operations in general.”
The proposed increases mean adult general admission tickets will go up by between £1.25 and £1.75 per person per matchday. Adult season tickets will also see an increase of between £21.50 and £27 next season.
This move has triggered a furious response from Liverpool’s Supporters’ Board, which was established following the European Super League debacle five years ago. The board had previously called for a two-year price freeze.
Liverpool’s Spirit of Shankly Supporters’ Union (SOS) organized an open online meeting last week and conducted a survey before developing a coordinated response with other fan groups. SOS has now confirmed it will step up protests at upcoming fixtures, beginning with Fulham at Anfield next weekend.
“This is no longer about consultation,” a statement from SOS said. “That opportunity has been and gone. This is about action.”
“Supporter groups are already organizing a coordinated response. We are doing so at speed because time is against us. But the direction is clear: protests will take place.”
“If the club does not value supporter voices, we will make ourselves difficult to ignore.”
“The Supporters’ Board has formally informed the club that action is coming. Now it is on all of us to back it.”
“Protests inside and outside Anfield have been discussed. It is agreed they need to happen.”
“This will not be limited to one game. Action will take place across home and away fixtures, starting with Fulham at Anfield and escalating from there.”
“Details to follow. But the key point is simple: this will grow and escalate.”
“This isn’t just about price. It’s about direction.”
“It’s about what kind of football club Liverpool chooses to be. One rooted in its people, or one that sees them as a revenue stream to be pushed year after year.”
“Future supporters will live with the consequences of what happens now.”
A similar approach in 2016, when fans staged a 70th-minute walkout against proposals for a £70 match ticket, led to FSG performing a U-turn.
