Chelsea have rowed back on their decision to raise season ticket prices from the start of the 2022/23 campaign just four days after announcing the details to supporters and three days since fan pressure led to the club withdrawing from the proposed European Super League.
While the West London club have not publicly apologised for committing to the breakaway, they have halted plans for a price rise that was first communicated to fan groups on Monday and also announced the imminent installation of rail seating following discussions with the local council and safety advisory groups.
In a statement, the club said “pricing for the 2022/23 season will be considered at a later date” having said earlier in the week that they would rise by 5%.
“For next season, 2021/22, general admission season ticket prices will be frozen. This means season ticket holders in general admission areas will pay the same as in 2011/12.
“Information on season ticket renewals for next season will be communicated to season ticket holders over the coming weeks. Individual Premier League and domestic cup matchday tickets will also be frozen.”
While the club outlined upgrades to corporate facilities at Stamford Bridge, including a new concourse in the west stand that will feature a food court and two new bars, more notable is that rail seating will be introduced behind both goals in time for the start of next season.
“While the change will result in a loss of just over 500 seats in the areas concerned, we have decided to act now in order to be ready and prepared for any future government decision to introduce safe standing in Premier League stadia,” the club added.