At the Hearts AGM on Wednesday, Tynecastle CEO Andrew McKinlay addressed questions from supporters, particularly regarding the club’s decision to reduce ticket allocations for away fans.
McKinlay defended the policy of limiting Celtic and Rangers fans to 630 seats at Tynecastle, describing it as “just about right” and criticizing certain away supporters amidst the ongoing controversy.
The reduced allocation for Celtic fans during their recent visit to Gorgie drew backlash, with the Jambos maintaining their stance of limiting all away allocations, except for city rivals Hibernian, due to high season ticket sales and growing demand from home supporters.
Under the new rules, clubs like Celtic are restricted to one section of the Roseburn Stand, prompting criticism from groups like the Green Brigade, who accused Hearts of creating “unnecessary division and friction” among their fans.
Responding to a question from a shareholder about stopping away ticket sales given the 7,000-strong waiting list for season tickets, McKinlay stated (via Edinburgh Evening News):
“I understand some frustration from Celtic supporters, but I think we’ve got it about right. Other than Hibs, all away allocations should be capped at 630. It feels fair.”
He added, “While I’d prefer no away support at times, it’s disappointing that some clubs don’t accommodate away fans as part of football. For us, the priority is selling out our end of the stadium to enable the ticket exchange system, which could allow those on the waiting list to attend. Many season ticket holders don’t attend every match, and while that’s their right, it leaves empty seats that could be used by others.
“For example, against Celtic, attendance was about 5,000 lower than the reported figure based on ticket sales. Last weekend against Aberdeen, it was 3,000 fewer. There are empty seats, and the solution is to sell out the other sections first so we can activate the ticket exchange system.”
