FA spending on council members’ Wembley access rose by 25%
The Football Association increased its spending on Wembley tickets and hospitality for FA Council members by 25% in the 2025-26 season, as supporters face rising costs to attend football. The rise comes after protests over ticket prices and amid wider concerns that the sport is becoming less affordable.
Accounts show the expenditure grew from £452,300 to £564,400. More than 120 Council members can attend England and FA matches at Wembley with a guest, premium seats, meals and drinks; the FA says it upgraded hospitality over the past year. Costs for Council meetings also rose from £18,600 to £33,200, while the FA expects Fellowship benefits to add to spending and plans changes from 2027 to reduce it.
- FA Wembley hospitality spending rose 25% to £564,400.
- More than 120 Council members can attend matches with a guest.
- Meeting costs nearly doubled, and Fellowship benefits may add spending.
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The Football Association (FA) governs football in England and organises England matches and major competitions at Wembley Stadium. Its Council is a group of more than 120 members who help represent the game; Council members can attend some FA events with a guest.
Wembley offers different levels of access, including premium seats and hospitality such as meals and drinks. Spending on these benefits is separate from the ticket prices paid by most supporters, but it has drawn attention as fans face pressure from the cost of attending matches and debate the affordability of football.
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The case for
The increase may reflect the FA’s decision to provide upgraded hospitality to more than 120 Council members and their guests, alongside higher costs for meetings and other benefits. Supporters of the spending could argue that Council members perform representative and governance roles, and that hospitality helps sustain their engagement with the FA’s work.
The case against
At a time when supporters are protesting rising ticket prices and many find attending matches less affordable, higher spending on premium access for Council members risks appearing out of step with the experience of ordinary fans. Critics could argue that the FA should show restraint and prioritise affordability, especially as the costs have risen and further Fellowship benefits are expected to add to spending.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “FA spending on Wembley hospitality and free tickets for FA Council rises by 25%”.