The Vikings Organization reportedly spent nearly $2 million on tickets for their highly anticipated Week 18 matchup against the Detroit Lions in the NFL regular season.
This game is shaping up to be a marquee event, as both teams are not only among the best in the league but are also competing for the NFC’s No. 1 seed. Securing this spot would provide a first-round bye and home-field advantage through the playoffs, culminating in the Super Bowl.
While both teams are known for their strong rosters on both sides of the ball, the Lions have the edge of playing at their home stadium, Ford Field, in Detroit. To minimize that advantage, the Vikings took an unusual approach that has raised some eyebrows.
According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the Vikings purchased approximately 1,900 tickets for the game, spending around $1,000 per ticket, totaling close to $2 million.
These tickets were then offered to Minnesota’s season ticket holders at a reduced price through an email campaign. Some tickets were reportedly sold for as little as $200.
In the email, the organization stated, “As a valued season ticket member, we want to offer you the opportunity to purchase lower-level seats for Sunday night’s game.”
The Vikings’ primary aim, according to Breer’s sources, was to provide a better experience for the players’ and staff’s families during this crucial game.
Team spokesman Jeff Anderson echoed this sentiment, explaining that the initiative was meant to benefit stakeholders, including staff, family members, season ticket holders, and team partners, by giving them a chance to attend the game.
Initially, the tickets were offered on a first-come, first-served basis and were intended solely for Vikings fans, not for resale.
However, some fans sold their tickets on secondary markets, with resale prices reportedly climbing to $1,200.
The Lions took note of the situation and reported it to the NFL, but the league determined that the Vikings had not violated any rules.
Regardless of this ticket controversy, one thing remains clear: the Minnesota Vikings vs.
Detroit Lions game will be an electrifying matchup, with both teams fighting for supremacy in the NFC.