Manchester United have threatened to suspend or cancel season tickets for fans allegedly breaching the club's ticketing terms and conditions, with some supporters facing the loss of tickets they have held for decades.
Fans Receive Restriction Emails
On Tuesday, a large number of supporters received emails from the club informing them that their accounts had been temporarily restricted. United claimed they had "identified sustained activity" associated with the accounts. The email demanded that fans confirm every device used to access their account, including mobile phones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers, and provide valid photographic identification.
Recipients were also asked to disclose whether any of these devices were used to access other ticketing accounts, whether the account is regularly accessed from multiple locations, and an explanation of how the account is accessed and managed.
Innocent Fans Caught in Crackdown
The Manchester Evening News has spoken to several affected supporters who insist they are innocent. One fan, a season ticket holder for 27 years, has been told restrictions will remain in place. Another, who follows United home and away and regularly complies with identification checks, faces losing their ticket.
A third fan was told restrictions would remain due to the "balance of the available evidence," but believes the club has not outlined any evidence of wrongdoing. The MEN has seen email correspondence between affected fans and United.
From conversations with supporters, United appear to have taken a blanket approach to tackling touting issues, meaning innocent fans have been caught in the crossfire. United were unable to confirm how impacted fans had been identified by their system.
Club Defends Approach
United believe their hand has been forced to tackle a widespread issue of touting, but concede the approach may mean some innocent fans are caught up in the process. However, a club source pointed to fans who have responded and had their accounts restored. The club has not received responses from some fans from the initial blanket email, which they believe could imply guilt.
Every supporter who reached out to the MEN has protested their innocence and sent detailed responses, which have not been accepted. United have said they are willing to look into cases further.
Appeals Process Available
The club has communicated to fans via email: "To ensure fairness and transparency, we have worked with our Fans' Forum to establish a robust appeals process. Appeals are considered by an independent Appeals Panel, supported by senior management representation, to ensure each case is reviewed objectively and fairly."
Affected fans must email appeals.panel@manutd.co.uk with relevant information no later than 19 July 2026, or their season tickets will be cancelled.
