Football credit cards

Football fans are notorious for their passionate support of teams. Fanatical devotion is expressed in a number of ways and one of them could be through their choice of credit card. It is certainly an obvious way of demonstrating their devotion; both to the beautiful game and their club of choice. Football clubs, like charities, have realised that partnering up with a bank to offer credit cards is an easy way of making money. Football fans are enticed to sign up with the clubs by an appeal to their loyalty. Their reward is the pleasure of contributing to their club's coffers whilst spending money.

All the major clubs from Arsenal to Tottenham have their own credit cards and fans can apply online; the clear implication being that true fans would not hesitate to support their club in this way. The Arsenal financial website opens with an inspirational quote by Thierry Henry stating 'I want to give my best for my team', which can be read as 'I want you to spend as much money as possible for my team'. Similarly the Newcastle United website exhorts you to 'carry the card that shows you're a true magpie'.

Taking out a card does benefit the clubs and funds raised are ring-fenced to be invested in the club infrastructure and development. The money goes to stadium costs and youth development programmes and fans can justifiably feel this is worthwhile. Some clubs also run a Points scheme, which rewards you for money spent with merchandise and special offers. You can receive signed posters, get the chance to announce the team at home fixtures and even join sports reporters commenting on the game. Naturally these are exactly the type of benefits that will appeal to dyed in the wool supporters. Applying for cards couldn't be easier and you can be done on the web or by telephone.

However, there is a clear caveat to all this and that's the level at which you must pay APR. Generally these compare unfavourably with most other cards and are significantly higher than rates offered by most high street banks. Other benefits are also lacking: balance transfers can be at a higher rate than the APR and there are few incentives such as free travel insurance or repayment protection. In effect fans are paying for the pleasure of owning a card in their team colour, together with the chance to purchase 'exclusive merchandise'. Whether this is worth the additional cost is debatable.

 

 

 

 

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