English Championship football club Sunderland is set to utilise digital season tickets from the 2023-24 season, following a comprehensive upgrade to the Stadium of Light’s entry system.
The club said that all physical season cards will be discontinued upon the conclusion of the 2022-23 campaign.
Supporters will receive their 2023-24 digital season ticket via email and will be able to download and store it on their mobile device, using Apple Wallet or Google Wallet.
“A digital season ticket is the safest, most convenient, and flexible way to receive your match ticket, whilst increasing security and protection against fraud,” said the club.
“Once familiarised, the move to digital season tickets will also ensure a faster entry to the Stadium of Light for all supporters and the transition also forms part of the Club’s long-term sustainability goals to reduce paper and plastic use.”
Fans will be able to renew their 2023-24 digital season tickets online through Sunderland’s e-ticketing platform without a process fee, while those renewing in-person will have to pay a £10 (€11/$12) service charge.
With the adoption of digital season tickets, the club will introduce support for fans to help with the transition. Sunderland will run a digital support drop-in service at the Beacon of Light community facility, in partnership with the Foundation of Light, to offer assistance.
The club said it was also exploring the option of introducing an additional digital support touchpoint in the centre of Sunderland.