
While we recognise that a 1.5% price rise is below the rate of inflation, we consider any rise unjustified at a stadium where fans already pay some of the highest ticket prices in Europe. Ultimately, it is the Club’s place to justify its decision and we encouraged them to provide a full explanation, but we were told the official pricing announcement would be a straight statement with little background detail.
Tottenham Hotspur is the eighth biggest club in world football by revenues and gate receipts are dwarfed by TV income and commercial deals. The simple fact is that the Club is not forced to raise ticket prices. It is choosing to do so, just as it chooses to make its other business decisions.
We made it clear to the Club’s Board that we do not support any price rises: rises that will result in more season ticket holders picking and choosing the games they attend, with the subsequent effect on atmosphere. We pointed out, again, that the cost of a season ticket to most season ticket holders is 19 Premier League home games plus home cup games – at least – and a good run in both domestic competitions and in Europe adds roughly 35-40% to the price of a season ticket.
However, we are conscious from previous experience that a section of our support will not consider the 1.5% rise excessive. So we are left with trying to make the best of the situation we have, with the resources we have.
In the coming weeks, we will be taking on board the response of members and the wider fanbase as we consider what, if any, further courses of action can be taken.
THST Board
13 February 2020