NFL Takes Action Against Players and Coaches for Ticket Scalping
The secondary ticket market for the NFL can be quite lucrative, but it doesn’t sit well with the league when individuals—especially players and team staff—scalp tickets. This issue was particularly problematic during Super Bowl LIX, held at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on February 9.
The NFL has begun to impose penalties, recently finding around 100 players and several club employees for selling Super Bowl tickets for more than their face value. This is in response to policy violations, as the league can monitor ticket sales and determine whether the original ticket purchasers actually attended the game.
As it stands, the NFL is continuing its investigation into the matter.
Details of the Fines
The fines imposed will differ based on individual circumstances. For players who resell tickets, they will be required to pay 150% of the ticket’s original price. Furthermore, there are serious repercussions; these players may lose their ability to buy tickets to future Super Bowls unless they are taking part in the game.
Interestingly, those club employees found guilty of scalping will face even stricter fines—200% of the ticket’s face value. While the identities of those penalized have not been disclosed, it has been confirmed that both players and coaches were involved, selling tickets to resellers.
A History of Scalping in the NFL
This isn’t the first time the NFL has dealt with scalping issues. In 2005, former Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Tice admitted to selling some of his Super Bowl ticket allotments, resulting in a hefty fine of $100,000 from the league.
For context, tickets for Super Bowl LIX averaged around $4,708 in the secondary market leading up to the event. The cheapest tickets were going for about $2,668, while premium seats commanded prices upwards of $10,000. Some tickets, especially those closest to the action, sold for as much as $50,000.
