Liverpool Supporters Announce Anfield Protests Over Ticket Price Increases
Liverpool fans, organized by the Spirit of Shankly supporters' group, have announced plans for protests at Anfield during the Premier League match against Fulham this Saturday. This action comes in response to the club's decision to raise ticket prices for the next three seasons, a move that has sparked significant anger among supporters.
Details of the Ticket Price Hikes
The club confirmed the price increases two weeks ago, aligning them with the Consumer Price Index annual inflation rate, with a maximum rise of five per cent. Specifically, adult general admission tickets will increase by between £1.25 and £1.75 per person per matchday, while adult season tickets will go up by between £21.50 and £27 next season, equating to a maximum increase of £1.42 per match.
Despite these hikes, the club has made some concessions, including a price freeze for senior, local, and junior tickets. Additionally, Liverpool's ticket prices remain lower than those of local rivals Everton, and the increases are notably less than those implemented by other top Premier League clubs over the past decade.
Fan Opposition and Planned Protests
However, Spirit of Shankly has expressed clear opposition, stating in a recent release that supporters are rightfully angry. The group emphasized that Liverpool FC has ignored overwhelming fan dissent, pushing ahead with the price hikes despite consultations and surveys indicating strong disapproval.
In their statement, Spirit of Shankly declared, "If the club's owners won't listen, then we make them. This is no longer about consultation. That opportunity has been and gone. This is about action." The club has been notified of the planned demonstrations, with further details to be revealed, but protests are confirmed for the upcoming home fixture against Fulham.
Campaign and Broader Implications
Alongside the protests, Spirit of Shankly has launched the "Not a pound in the ground" campaign, urging fans to avoid spending money inside Anfield and instead support local, independent businesses around the stadium. The group also backs delaying season ticket renewals until close to deadlines as a form of protest.
The club defended the price increases by citing rising matchday operating costs, utility expenses, and business rates, while highlighting their previous commitment to freezing ticket prices under FSG ownership. Spirit of Shankly countered this, arguing that these financial decisions rest solely with the ownership and that the protests have broader relevance for all Premier League clubs.
They warned that by the end of the three-year period, this would represent a fifth increase in six seasons, with tickets approaching £70 and season tickets exceeding £1,000. "This isn't just about price. It's about direction. It's about what kind of football club Liverpool chooses to be," they stated, emphasizing the long-term impact on future supporters.
