Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur supporters are facing eye-watering costs to attend the Europa League final in Bilbao.
Fans making last-minute arrangements for the match are being hit with bills running into thousands of pounds for travel, accommodation and tickets.
The final, which kicks off at 9pm local time (8pm BST) on Wednesday, has triggered massive price hikes across all services.
Those still hoping to attend the showpiece event are discovering that flights, hotel rooms and match tickets are being offered at prices many times their normal value, raising concerns about fairness for travelling supporters.
Fans are facing extraordinary prices to see the final in person
Reuters
Flights to Bilbao have seen extraordinary price increases for the final. EasyJet is charging £1,823 for a return journey from Gatwick to Bilbao, departing Wednesday morning and returning Thursday morning.
British Airways passengers face costs of £1,288 for a Heathrow return trip leaving Wednesday morning and coming back Thursday afternoon.
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Spanish carrier Vueling offers slightly cheaper options at £1,179 for flights from Gatwick, departing Tuesday night and returning Thursday night.
The stark contrast in pricing becomes evident when comparing these rates to normal fares, with the same route available for just £116 a week later.
Hotel accommodation in central Bilbao has also seen dramatic price surges for the night of the final.
The cheapest rooms available on Booking.com are being offered at approximately £1,200 for match night.
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This represents a staggering markup compared to normal rates, with the same accommodation available for just £78 the following evening.
Match tickets themselves have become a premium commodity. While some fortunate supporters of both clubs managed to secure official tickets from as little as £34, others are turning to resale platforms.
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Tickets for the clash at the San Mames Stadium are now appearing on marketplace Ticombo with asking prices starting from around £500.
The dramatic price increases reflect how airline pricing is generally driven by demand, with fares automatically rising as more seats are filled on popular routes. This dynamic pricing model means that as the Europa League final approaches, the remaining seats command premium prices.
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While Booking.com does not directly control the pricing of accommodation listed on its platform, the company has previously urged providers to "act fairly" when setting rates for major events.
The significant disparity between prices during the final and those just days later highlights the financial challenges facing football supporters attending major European fixtures, particularly when two English clubs are involved.
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