Premier League make controversial ticketing change that will affect Newcastle United supporters

Premier League clubs will be forced to distribute digital tickets from the 2026-27 season.

In a move that will devastate memorabilia enthusiasts, physical tickets will soon become a distant memory. Newcastle United went digital last season and suffered teething problems, with queues building up at the turnstiles before kick-off.

Stopping potential touting was a key reason behind clubs making the switch. However, a culture of getting a last-minute ticket has become impractical - with the new measures slammed by some fans.

The Premier League confirmed clubs must adhere to the new regulations from 2026-27. However, a two-year dispensation will be given to newly-promoted sides, with many still selling physical tickets.

“At the Premier League’s Annual General Meeting in June, clubs agreed to the phased adoption of new digital ticketing requirements, commencing from the start of the new season,” the announcement read. “An increasing number of clubs have already introduced digital ticketing, helping to make the sale, transfer, and use of match tickets more efficient and secure for clubs and supporters.

“These emerging developments have been used to create a set of requirements for the sale of Home and Away match tickets across the whole Premier League. A two-year phased-in period will begin in August, creating an opportunity for all clubs to make the necessary changes to its current ticketing offer.

“Digital ticketing will become a mandatory requirement for all existing Premier League clubs by no later than Season 2026/27. Newly promoted clubs will have a period of two years to implement its use upon joining the League.”