Source: REUTERS/Phil Noble
[Saba Sports News] According to British media reports, since 2020, the prices of some ball boy packages in the English Premier League have surged significantly, sparking strong criticism from MPs and relevant figures. Compared to the prices disclosed in 2020, the most expensive package fees have skyrocketed by 157%. Currently, half of the Premier League clubs offer free slots, but Nottingham Forest, Brighton, Crystal Palace, Ipswich Town, and West Ham United still adhere to the pricing policies criticized as “exploitative”. The clubs have strongly defended their pricing, emphasizing that the packages include hospitality services and equipment, while also providing free slots to the community. In 2020, the highest charge was £700, with clubs such as West Ham, Forest, Norwich, and Aston Villa charging over £500 for important matches, prompting fan protests. Some clubs like Aston Villa have quietly abolished the charges, and others like West Ham have lowered their maximum prices. However, Nottingham Forest currently leads the league with the most expensive package at £1,800 (plus VAT). This Class A match package includes a child ball boy and hospitality for three guests. Nottingham Forest and Brighton both deny all criticism regarding their pricing, emphasizing that multiple free slots are available for each game.