"FIFA did something earlier this month that's not just foolish, greedy and morally dubious (been there, done that), but also hugely counterproductive to its own interests -- milking the cash cow otherwise known as the Men's FIFA World Cup. So much so that they frantically tried to remedy things earlier this week with the sort of baby step that makes minimal impact and goes nowhere near far enough."
"Those 16% of fans who get their tickets from PMAs aren't just random supporters. They are an integral backdrop to the giant, month-long plus reality TV show otherwise known as the World Cup. They're the ones who bring the noise and the color. They're the ones who sing and gyrate. They're the ones who get interviewed outside grounds. They're the ones cameras linger on when there's a break in play."
FIFA set excessively high ticket prices for tickets sold via national federations (Participant Member Associations), with group-stage prices reported between $180 and $700. Those PMA tickets account for about 16% of total World Cup tickets (8% per team, per game). After fan-group backlash and data released by the German federation, FIFA added a $60 entry tier but left core pricing largely unchanged. PMA ticket holders are passionate, traveling supporters who create atmosphere, appear on camera, and contribute essential color and noise. The pricing strategy prioritized short-term revenue yet proved counterproductive to long-term interests by undermining the matchday spectacle and empowering potential fan resistance.
Read at ESPN.com
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