I’m pretty passionate about sports, and, honestly, I’m surprised there isn’t a credit card just for sports fans. Yet there are certain options that might not catch everyone’s eye—like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®.
This card is well-known for its travel rewards, but it actually has some perks that sports enthusiasts would find appealing. Whether you attend one game a year or follow your team everywhere, this could be a solid choice.
Sure, the annual fee is $795, but the benefits can definitely help offset that, especially for sports fans.
No matter what sport you’re into—basketball, football, or even motorsports—this card has some standout features. Let’s dive into a few reasons why it might deserve a place in your wallet.
Ticket Credit
With the Chase Sapphire Reserve, you can get $300 in credits for StubHub or Viagogo every year until December 31, 2027. You can get $150 from January to June and another $150 for July to December, but you have to activate it.
StubHub and Viagogo are huge ticket platforms, so finding a game to attend shouldn’t be too hard. Just keep in mind that prices on these sites can be steeper than face value, as they often involve resellers.
For instance, TPG writer Danyal Ahmed, a Lakers fan, plans to use his credits for games in late 2025 and early 2026. I’m leaning toward using mine for an Oregon Ducks football ticket. I could snag a ticket in the fall and then, fingers crossed, use the other $150 for a playoff game in January.
While these credits won’t cover the entire cost of a ticket, they do effectively save you $150. If your ticket is less than that, you can even spread the credits across multiple purchases throughout the year.
Note: Those with the Sapphire card who applied before June 23 will be able to use this credit starting October 26.
Travel Credits
The Chase Sapphire Reserve also provides $300 in travel credits each year. This is incredibly easy to use—you might not even notice it’s happening, as it applies to various purchases like buses or parking.
This is particularly handy for sports fans who might need to cover local travel expenses to get to games. Plus, unlike ticket credits, this amount isn’t divided up, so you can use it all at once.
Hotel Credit
Cardholders can enjoy an annual statement credit of $500 for hotels booked through Chase Travel, which breaks down to $250. However, you’ll need to book at least two nights in advance to qualify.
Many sports fans understand how hard it is to find decent hotel deals during big events in major cities, so saving some money here can really add up. If you have elite status with a hotel chain, you can also enjoy additional perks and earn points.
Note: Current Sapphire cardholders who applied before June 23 will have access to this credit starting October 26.
Apple Subscription
Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders get free access to Apple Music and Apple TV+ subscriptions until June 22, 2027, with one-time activation for each service.
This is a surprise benefit for many! You can catch various sports games and documentaries, like “Ted Lasso,” which is a personal favorite of mine. Sure, it may not be for everyone, but it’s a nice touch for sports lovers.
Rewards Rate
With the Chase Sapphire Reserve, you earn points in multiple categories:
- 8 points per dollar on purchases through Chase Travel.
- 5 points per dollar on Lyft rides until September 30, 2027.
- 4 points per dollar on direct bookings for flights and hotels.
- 3 points per dollar on dining worldwide.
- 1 point per dollar on everything else.
If you’re a fan who travels frequently to catch your team, this can really add up. Booking through the Chase portal can earn you 8 points, plus 4 points for direct flight or hotel bookings.
If you’re relying on Lyft for rides to the game, you’ll get 5 points per dollar spent, and also a monthly $10 credit that might help ease some transportation costs.
When you’re at a game, you’ll likely want to eat, right? You can earn 3 points per dollar spent on meals, although many stadium food purchases may not count as restaurant dining.
Other Considerations
There are additional perks worth mentioning. The Chase Sapphire Reserve can also provide:
- Meal Credits: Up to $250 at participating restaurants during your travels, which can help lessen your dining expenses.
- Lounge Access: Access to lounges that can enhance your travel experience.
- Travel Protection: Offers various protections for your travel plans.
- Welcome Bonus: New cardholders can earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in the first three months—worth about $2,563 according to TPG’s September 2025 estimates.
These benefits make a good case for why sports fans should think about adding this card to their wallets.
Conclusion
The Chase Sapphire Reserve isn’t just another travel card. It offers strong value for sports fans who can really benefit from its unique perks.
Check out the full Chase Sapphire Reserve review for more details.
