MIAMI, USA: Inter Miami fans were taken aback when they received an email detailing the doubled season ticket prices for the upcoming season.
The ‘Messi effect’ has undoubtedly played a significant role in this price hike, making the opportunity to watch the World Cup winner live a tempting proposition for many fans.
Owned by Miami businessman Jorge Mas and former England player David Beckham, Inter Miami saw an increase from $485 to $884 for the cheapest season ticket this year, placing fans behind the goal for the 17 home MLS games. This amounts to $52 per match. Seats offering a more expansive view, close to the half-way line with access to a food and drink ‘club’ area, surged from $3,600 to $7,650, and similar increases were observed for the most expensive seats.
Comparatively, the cheapest season ticket to watch European and Premier League champions Manchester City stands at $469, with the most expensive ticket costing $1,256. However, it’s essential to note that hospitality deals are separate from season tickets. At Messi’s former club Barcelona, the lowest price for a season pass is $380.53, with the priciest one at $919.62.
Despite the surge in season ticket prices, current season ticket holders have been protected from the drastic rise in single-match ticket prices for Miami games since Messi’s arrival in July. Some season ticket holders have taken advantage of the demand and have sold their season ticket access to individual games on the secondary ticket market, reaping significant mark-ups.
For fans seeking a downgrade to cheaper seating options, the club offers that flexibility. A club source also mentioned an extensive waiting list for season tickets, showcasing the high demand for access to the games.
Inter Miami is in its fourth season of existence, and this sudden increase in prices has left many long-time supporters frustrated. These fans had spent years anticipating having an MLS team to support, and this development has come as a shock.
Ed Serrano, a key figure in the campaign to bring an MLS franchise to South Florida, expressed his disappointment, stating that he expected an increase but not to this extent. Serrano criticized the move, suggesting that it may alienate the core fan base and deter potential future supporters. He emphasized the need to consider the broader fan base beyond focusing solely on profits.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami has plans to relocate to Miami Freedom Park by Miami International Airport in 2025, a $350 million stadium as part of a reported $1 billion retail, entertainment, office, and hotel development. This move aligns with the last year of Messi’s $150 million deal with the club.
While the club justifies the price increase by citing on-field changes and broader investments, concerns remain about the potential negative impact on building a sustained fan base for the future. Messi’s presence is undoubtedly a draw, but long-term sustainability and inclusivity should be at the forefront of the club’s strategy to ensure a loyal and diverse fan base for years to come.
