Club World Cup Flop? Not Even Messi Can Sell Tickets – See the Drastic Price Drop!

The Lionel Messi effect, which once revolutionized MLS and sent ticket demand soaring, appears insufficient for the opening match of the 2025 Club World Cup. Despite the presence of the Argentine star and other prominent figures like Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba at Inter Miami, ticket sales for the highly anticipated clash against Egypt's Al-Ahly have been significantly low. This has forced organizers to take drastic measures: slashing ticket prices considerably.

The news has caused quite a stir in the football world. It was widely expected that Inter Miami's debut in a tournament of this magnitude, spearheaded by Messi, would generate massive demand and high prices. However, reality has proven different. According to the New York Times, FIFA has drastically reduced prices for the opening match of the new Club World Cup format due to poor sales. The report indicates that tickets, initially offered at $349 in December, have seen a steep drop and can now be purchased for as little as $55. This price reduction is a clear indicator of the low demand for this particular match, despite its status as the tournament's curtain-raiser. The New York Times also points out that tens of thousands of seats remain unsold at Inter Miami's stadium, which has a capacity of just over 65,000 spectators.

Messi's Drawing Power Questioned (at the Box Office) and Demand for Other Giants

This situation raises questions about Messi's drawing power in certain markets or contexts, or whether the matchup against Al-Ahly simply hasn't been attractive enough for the mass audience organizers were aiming for. FIFA, the event's organizer, has found it necessary to adjust its pricing strategy to ensure a larger turnout for this initial match.

Interestingly, the article notes that ticket demand remains high for other tournament matches, especially those involving European football giants like Real Madrid or traditional South American powerhouses such as Boca Juniors. This suggests that while Messi is a global figure, the appeal of certain clubs with historical and massive fan bases in specific locations might even surpass the "Messi effect" in terms of ticket sales for particular games.

Messi's Importance, According to 'Kun' Agüero

Despite this box office situation, Lionel Messi's relevance in the Club World Cup is undeniable. Former Argentine footballer Sergio "Kun" Agüero made it clear with his remarks on the matter: "Even if many don't like it, he is the best player in the world that everyone wants to see." This statement underscores that, regardless of fluctuations in ticket sales for a specific match, Messi's presence remains a magnet for fans and a crucial factor for the tournament's prestige.

The Club World Cup serves as a global showcase for football, and Inter Miami's presence with its stars adds a touch of glamour. It will be interesting to see how demand evolves as the tournament progresses and whether Messi's presence can generate more enthusiasm in the decisive stages, or if this trend of adjusted prices for certain matches will persist. For now, Inter Miami's Club World Cup debut comes with an unexpected cut in ticket costs.