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The everyday, explainedBy Huw Allen

Premier League. Football goes premium.

Football used to be a working class game and now it feels like a luxury product. Local fans, who built the culture, are being quietly priced out.

THE GIST ON PREMIER LEAGUE: "Premier League, Premium Prices"

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How much has football gone up?

Premier League ticket prices have risen way above inflation over the last decade, and this season some clubs raised prices again despite record TV money and record global revenue.

Fans report £4,000 season tickets, sometimes more, single match tickets at £60 to £100 plus, and hospitality packages selling out faster than regular tickets. Wages haven't kept up, so for many fans going to a match has gone from weekly ritual to once-a-season treat.

Who is football for now?

It isn't just about football. It's about who Britain's experiences are for. Clubs sell premium entertainment products to global audiences, prioritising tourists, corporate hospitality and wealthy supporters.

Local fans, the ones who built the culture, are quietly being priced out. When demand massively exceeds supply prices go up, but something deeper is happening: heritage and community are being financialised.

Why does it matter?

Football has always been Britain's great equaliser. No matter your class, you had a place in the stands. If even football goes premium, it's a cultural shift.

Shared experiences are splitting into two camps: an affordable escape of pubs, streaming and highlights, and premium live access of stadiums, boxes and VIP culture. When the middle is squeezed out of cultural spaces, society loses more than atmosphere. It loses belonging.

Is it right that clubs raise prices when demand is high?

Your take. One tap, then see how everyone else voted.

Quick answers

How much are Premier League tickets?

Fans report £4,000 season tickets, sometimes more, and £60 to £100 plus for single matches.

Who are clubs prioritising?

Tourists, corporate hospitality and wealthy supporters, rather than local fans.

What is the bigger shift?

Heritage and community are being financialised, and shared experiences split into affordable escape and premium live access.

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