League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Recruiting

Sunderland fans divided over new membership scheme's fairness and benefits

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 16, 2026, 2:13 PM

Last updated Jul 16, 2026

Sunderland fans divided over new membership scheme's fairness and benefits

Summary

Sunderland's new membership scheme has sparked controversy among fans, with many questioning its fairness. Critics argue that the program favors 'plastic supporters' and overlooks loyal season ticket-holders who have supported the club through challenging times. Opinions vary widely, with some longtime fans expressing frustration at the extra cost associated with obtaining tickets. Meanwhile, others see the initiative as a chance to secure access to games they previously found difficult. The discussion continues as fans voice their concerns and thoughts on social media platforms.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Sunderland introduces a new membership scheme seen as divisive among its fanbase.
•Some fans feel it prioritizes newer supporters over loyal season ticket-holders.
•Critics express concerns about the cost required to access tickets.
•Longtime supporters share mixed feelings about the potential benefits of the scheme.

Latest Updates

2:13 PMYahoo Sports — Are new memberships 'rewarding loyalty' or 'a bit of a kick in the teeth'?

What they're saying

"
Now we have all the plastic supporters turning back up when the Premier League, and now Europe, beckons. The way I see it, this is rewarding the loyalty of the season ticket-holders who have been there through the hard times and asking those who just want to be here when things are going well to put their money where their mouth is. Thomas: I'm a massive Sunderland supporter and have been a season ticket-holder in the past, but now, because of family and work commitments, I only get to one or two games a year.
— Yahoo Sports

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