While fans are eagerly awaiting to watch Lionel Messi‘s first full season, they received unexpected news. Inter Miami has officially increased the season ticket prices with the new rate, double what was previously. The move hasn’t been widely appreciated by anyone and a slight picture is now being established that the significantly higher pricing would be limiting the sport to the rich.

Last year, the cheapest season tickets were priced at $485, and this year they have jumped to $884. In the midfield club section, prices were $3600 last season and $7650 this season. Despite the displeasure over the price hike, Inter Miami has confirmed that the season tickets have already been sold out.

Does Inter Miami’s season ticket price affect the MLS’ accessibility?

The team at CBS Sports Golazo recently shared their analysis of the price hike. A panelist said, “It’s a little bit just disappointing because MLS was so accessible when sports in the United States has become a spectacle for the rich.” He added that, compared to leagues like the NBA, the MLS was fairly affordable. Not anymore. Moreover, the expert also revealed a potential reason as to why the Herons board decided to hike the price. He explained, “People are obsessive about Messi they will do anything. We saw it happen around the league when he went on the road.

“People will do anything they will drop whatever price there is to go to a game and the thing is that in Miami he knows that they can do that. Because people have enough money to do so”. Fans on social media also voiced their displeasure at the decision. They added that the price hike won’t help promote soccer in the US. The surge is understandably due to the Lionel Messi craze. However, considering David Beckham‘s statements after signing the Argentine, this decision was surprising, to say the very least.

Analyzing David Beckham’s comments after signing Lionel Messi

Previously, David Beckham had proclaimed Lionel Messi as a ‘gift’ to MLS and America. The reasoning was that he would help inspire the young generation of soccer players in the country. This would undoubtedly help to promote and develop the sport. Hence, the decision to hike season ticket prizes has puzzled many.

Read More: Inter Miami Co-owner Tried to Cut Off Lionel Messi’s Saudi Arabia Deals by Asking a Tricky Question

Their season ticket prizes now cost between $800 and $10,000  respectively. On the other hand, Barcelona’s highest season ticket is priced at around $1000. Will other teams inevitably follow Inter Miami and hike their prices as well? Considering the next World Cup is set to be co-hosted by America, such a move will likely affect the popularity of soccer in the country.

What is your opinion of the ticket price hike? Let us know in the comments below.

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