Manchester United have released a detailed update on their controversial ticket touting investigation, acknowledging the distress caused to some supporters and outlining the club's intentions going forward.
Investigation sparked backlash
The investigation, launched last month, drew widespread criticism from loyal fans, with several fan groups issuing a joint statement condemning the operation and demanding transparency. The club has now responded on its official website, explaining why the review was undertaken, how it was conducted, and what happens next.
Club's statement
In the opening statement, United said: "Thank you to the many supporters, fan representatives and supporter organisations who have shared their views with us over recent weeks. Our intention throughout this process is a simple one; to protect fair access to tickets for genuine Manchester United supporters and to tackle organised ticket touting and abuse of the ticketing system."
The club added: "We have listened carefully to the feedback we have received, both through formal meetings and through the many conversations, emails and calls that have taken place. We know that this issue has caused significant concern and distress for some supporters."
Findings so far
United stated that the process has uncovered "significant and organised touting" and cited an example of 1,088 accounts accessed on a single device. However, they recognised that the way the process was communicated, and its impact on loyal match-going supporters, has caused "genuine upset and distress."
The club acknowledged that some supporters who saw their actions as legitimate and did not make financial gain may have felt treated harshly. They clarified: "We intend to reserve the most severe sanctions for cases where the evidence indicates organised touting, systematic misuse or activity for financial gain. Where this is not indicated, season tickets will not be cancelled."
Ongoing concerns
The update has not appeased all fans. While some have had restrictions lifted, others remain in the appeal process, and the timing has impacted some fans' ability to apply for Hull away tickets on August 22.
