Queens Park Rip-off

Sadly at the FSF we’re regularly contacted with tales of clubs increasing ticket prices to extortionate levels, relying on fan loyalty and deep pockets to pay more to watch a game of football than they would to go to the opera.

News reached us of another example this week when QPR announced they would be raising prices at Loftus Road, with entry to some games now costing £50 for a normal seat in the stands.

Sources close to the Football League have also confirmed to the FSF that mid-season price rises such as this one breach League rules which require all clubs to notify their prices before the start of each season. The rises also breach the pledges on ticket prices made to supporters in QPR’s own club charter.

This comes on the back of news in May that some fans would face a 50 per cent increase on their already costly season tickets, with the club offering no discount to early renewals either, as is custom at many other clubs.

QPR 1st, the club’s Supporters’ Trust has branded the latest rises “unjustified” and added: “We regret to say that the club’s action is consistent with its policy towards the pricing of season tickets, which was also dealt with in an insensitive and brash manner.

“We will be canvassing our members to find out whether there is majority support for the trust formally participating in action.”

Meanwhile QPR Loyal Supporters’ Association said they were "dismayed and disgusted" at the decision and warned the club that they risk losing supporters who are tightening their belts amid the credit crunch.

These rises took place without any consultation with fans, although we’re informed the club now plans to meet with various supporter groups next week, who are mobilising in opposition.

Fans of the club have been in contact with the FSF and pointed out that despite the club attempting to build a ‘boutique’ image – which appears to include pricing out its support – it may be closer to Tesco Value range.

We’ve been told that the club has recently closed facilities such as refreshment kiosks and bookies in some of its stands, although we hear they intend to open a shop selling exclusive watches in the corporate section (although many of the boxes remain unsold), so that’s OK then.