Aviva Stadium(Image: INPHO/Ryan Byrne)

FAI reaction to Ireland fan group criticism of ticket price increase

31 Oct 2024, 14:53 by Mark McCadden · Irish Mirror

The FAI have reacted to criticism by a group representing several Ireland supporters associations to an increase in season ticket prices for the 2025 season.

An Abbotstown spokesperson has defended the move, stating that it is just the second increase in the last decade - and that the increase was necessary given a rise in overall costs.

The group, the Irish Football Supporters Partnership (IFSP) issued a statement on Thursday hitting out at the move, saying they were “extremely disappointed” with the price rise.

The season ticket gives holders entry to all home men’s national team games in 2025, as well as access to apply for international tournaments such as the 2026 World Cup and Euro 2028.

Ireland will play in the World Cup qualifiers next year, and will be drawn in either a four- or five-team group, so will have either three or four home games between March and November.

Heimir Hallgrímsson’s side could also face a Nations League relegation play-off in March, which would push the beginning of their World Cup campaign out to June.

An FAI Spokesperson responded, telling Mirror Sport: “The Football Association of Ireland has this week opened our Season Ticket renewal window for the 2025 season, which includes our FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign next year at the Aviva Stadium.

“Whilst the pricing model for the 2025 Season Ticket has been modified to reflect an increase in overall costs, this is only the second change to the adult pricing model in the last decade with our long-term season ticket holders.

“The Season Ticket package continues to represent the best value for supporters to watch every match next year, with the average cost of a match for an adult starting from €30 and juniors starting at €18.

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“We've also introduced a new Loyalty Supporter Scheme to reward supporters for their support of Heimir Hallgrímsson's side with points accrued set to improve supporters' chances of securing tickets to major tournaments, including FIFA 2026 World Cup and UEFA EURO 2028 should we qualify.

“Renewals opened yesterday and we've been delighted with the response so far from our supporters as we look forward to another big year of matches at the Aviva Stadium.”

IFSP, established in 2019, consists of a committee of representatives from CRISC (Confederation of Republic of Ireland Supporters Clubs), YBIG Mandate, ISN (Irish Supporters Network).

It is the body that nominates supporter representatives to the General Assembly of the FAI.

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