Sounders will ensure season-ticket holders get ‘full credit’ for 2020 matches

With the prospect of games being cancelled — or at least played behind closed doors — becoming almost inevitable, the Seattle Sounders told season-ticket holders on Friday that they would receive “full credit” for any games they are unable to attend. While the team would likely prefer fans to simply roll over their season tickets to next season, they did pledge “flexibility based on your unique circumstances” that includes the option for refunds. The Sounders also promised to not raise the per-match price on season tickets in 2021.

The full email:

Now more than ever, we are committed to communicating with you, our Sounders Family, as openly and proactively as possible.

Recently, Major League Soccer suspended league play until at least June 8 based on regional and federal public health recommendations. Our hope remains to defend our Cup in front of fans and play a full MLS season in 2020.

Should that not be the case, Sounders FC will ensure you get full credit for all matches cancelled or not played with fans, including a range of options depending on your preference and needs. Whether it’s playing in front of fans in 2020, applying credit to a 2021 membership, or issuing a refund - we commit to flexibility based on your unique circumstances.

To further demonstrate our commitment to you for a shared future, Sounders FC pledges that the Alliance Member price-per-match will be the same in 2021 as it was for 2020.

Additionally, in partnership with our 2021 members, a gift of Sounders matchday will be shared with doctors, nurses, EMTs, grocery workers, delivery drivers, food-supply workers, and many other front-line heroes who are working hard to keep our community safe today.

We Got This Seattle.

No action is needed at this time. In the meantime, stay home, stay safe, and we will be in touch soon.

Sincerely,
Seattle Sounders FC

Notably, there is still a high degree of uncertainty around the state of the 2020 season. Several leagues in Europe have already called off the remainder of their 2019-20 seasons and no North American league has announced a firm date to begin playing matches again.

While this announcement will no doubt come as a relief to cash-strapped fans, it was not immediately clear when they could start requesting refunds. The letter also didn’t offer any clarification for fans who have continued to be billed on their 12-month payment plans, although a source indicated that the Sounders will work with fans to mitigate any immediate concerns.

Still, this should be seen as a positive step. While reading a bit between the lines suggests the Sounders may add a game or two to the 18-game season-ticket package in order to recoup some of the lost money, this is a sign they are committed to finding equitable solutions.