Following a comprehensive investigation, Manchester United has taken action against its own supporters, banning nearly 700 season-ticket holders. The move has also sparked protests.
As part of its fight against ticket abuse, Manchester United has announced a series of sanctions. Following a thorough investigation over the past few weeks, the record English champions have banned 685 season ticket holders. A total of 1,617 accounts, on which the club said unusual activity had been detected, were subject to scrutiny.
Man United contacted all those affected and asked for their comments. Those who were subsequently penalised were able to appeal to an independent appeals panel, which also included fan representatives. As a result, 238 fans were able to avoid a season ticket ban; they are simply no longer permitted to transfer home tickets or purchase away tickets.
“These actions undermine fair access to tickets”
499, on the other hand, were banned for one season after the appeals panel upheld the original decision. A further 73 did not lodge an appeal; 113 failed to respond to repeated requests and were also handed the most severe sanction.
The 685 banned supporters were accused of “a significant abuse of the ticket sales system for the purpose of financial gain”. This included the operation of organised ticket networks that controlled, sold and distributed tickets from hundreds of accounts. “These actions undermine fair access to tickets for genuine fans and have no place at Manchester United,” the Red Devils stated.
The statement continued: “Our focus is now on ensuring that these tickets are returned to our fans. All season tickets released as part of this process will be offered to fans on the season ticket waiting list. Refunds have been or will be paid to each of the banned season ticket holders.”
Fans accuse Man United of aggressive communication
468 of the 1,617 individuals identified in advance had already escaped punishment following their statements; for the most part, they had ‘only’ shared account details and passwords. A further 226 accounts received a final warning.
On Sunday, ManUnited will host city rivals ManCity for the Premier League derby; in the run-up to the match, the supporters’ group “The 1958” has called for protests against the club’s actions. Among other things, they accuse the club of using aggressive language during the investigation. “No loyal fan should be treated as guilty without being given a fair opportunity to understand and challenge the allegations made against them,” a spokesperson told The Athletic.