Spanish giants Real Sociedad are facing growing fan unrest after recently announcing significant increases in matchday ticket prices for the upcoming La Liga season. The decision has sparked outrage among supporters, with ultras and fan associations threatening a boycott of several home matches if the club does not reconsider its pricing strategy.
Supporters Protest Rising Costs
Supporter groups such as the Aurrera Gipuzkoa and Realeko Banda have organised protests outside the Reale Arena, urging the club’s board to reverse the price hikes. The new pricing structure, which increases adult matchday tickets by up to 30% for key fixtures, has been met with frustration from long-standing season-ticket holders.
Fans argue that the increases make attending matches unaffordable for average supporters, particularly families and younger fans.
“Football is for the community, not just for those who can pay more,” said fan leader Iker Etxeberria during a press briefing organised by supporters outside the stadium.
Chants of “No Prices, No Matches” echoed as groups delivered a petition with thousands of signatures to the club’s main offices.
Club Responds, But Fans Demand More Action
In response to the backlash, Real Sociedad issued a statement defending the revised ticket structure, citing rising operational costs and the need to remain competitive both domestically and in Europe. The club has proposed certain concessions — such as discounted rates for youth and pensioner categories — but many supporters say these steps do not go far enough.
The president of Real Sociedad, Jokin Aperribay, acknowledged the fans’ concerns in a recent media appearance, stating that the board “takes supporter feedback seriously” and is willing to hold further discussions.
Despite this, fan groups remain sceptical and are calling for a full rollback of the price increases before the boycott is lifted.
As the situation evolves, both the club and its supporters face a crucial period of negotiation, with La Liga’s opening fixtures fast approaching. The outcome could set an important precedent for fan-club relations in Spanish football.
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