FAS working to lower ticket prices for Singapore football matches after fan outcry

SINGAPORE: The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) is taking action after fans said that ticket prices for recent international friendlies were “too high”.

In response to queries from CNA, an FAS spokesperson said that it is working on lowering the pricing for Singapore’s upcoming Mitsubishi Electric Cup matches, and will announce them shortly.

The next edition of the tournament – also known as the ASEAN Championship and previously the AFF Championship – will be held from Dec 8 to Jan 5.

Tsutomu Ogura’s Lions will kick off their campaign at the National Stadium against Cambodia on Dec 11 and also play a group stage match against Thailand there on Dec 17.

“We have a responsibility to balance ticket pricing against the costs which we incur at each match. This is to remain fiscally prudent and financially sound,” the spokesperson told CNA.

“But our fans’ support is absolutely critical and invaluable, and their presence at the National Stadium, supporting our Lions through thick and thin, cheering their hearts out, means everything to us.

“We have heard our fans, who say that the recent ticket (prices), for friendly matches, were too high. We will therefore find a way to make it work.” 

CNA also reached out to Kallang Alive Sport Management (KASM) for comment, but was directed to FAS.

KASM was incorporated by Sport Singapore and was established to manage the Singapore Sports Hub, where the National Stadium is located.

Ticket prices for international friendlies on Nov 14 and Nov 18 at the National Stadium ranged from S$12 (US$8.90) to S$40 for seats in three categories, before ticketing fees. Hospitality tickets cost S$150 before fees.

Category 3 seats were those in the west zone of the stadium which were located behind one goal.