Posted by alex on January 05, 2001 at 15:10:32:
I am trying to get info regarding the legality of ticketing arrangements for away matches in Europe.
For example what Leeds have done is to set up a travel agency, Leeds United Travel, who get priority in the allocation. There is no qualification necessary to go on LU Travel trips bar having the clubs Premier card (�15 to non-season ticket holders) and of course having the money. A ticket is guaranteed if you book on one of these trips.
This means of course that those who want to travel independently find that their chances of getting a ticket are limited.
The consequences are obvious. Those who have money to burn and fancy a few days away and don't particular support Leeds get to go,while those who have less money (probably from buying a season ticket) get to watch the games on T.V., (that's if it is being shown in their area).
When English clubs got back into Europe competitions tickets were only allocated through club travel schemes. But then I think about 1995 on FA instruction this policy was abandoned. Simply because it was illegal. I think the letter came from Glen Kirton from the F.A., and it was to stave off legal action from a company called Universal Travel.
Any information about this and what has been happening at other clubs would be appreciated.