• Loading stock data...
Monday, October 20, 2025

Messi’s Impact on Ticket Sales Worries Opposing Coaches

  • Union coach pleads with local fans to not sell tickets on resale platforms.
  • Apple also plans a second Messi docuseries.
Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports

The Messi Effect is now so strong that opposing coaches are looking to directly influence ticket sales to preserve home-field advantage in the wake of Lionel Messi’s transformational arrival to MLS.

A perfect 5-0 since the Argentinian star joined last month, Inter Miami plays the Philadelphia Union in the Leagues Cup semifinals on Tuesday. Messi’s immense appeal has compelled Union head coach Jim Curtin to plead with local fans not to resort to the resale market — and possibly create a pro-Inter Miami crowd at Subaru Park.

“Please don’t sell your tickets, no matter how much money they’re offering for them — please,” Curtin said. 

Resale ticket prices for the match are beginning at about $300 each on major platforms.

“We know that we’re going to have a packed Subaru Park. It’s going to be the No. 1 ticket in the city, for sure. I’m sure some celebrities will be out here in Philly, so I’m excited for it,” Curtin added.

Messi has sparked substantial increases in MLS League Pass subscriptions, merchandise sales, and social media audiences.

Another Messi Docuseries

Apple has solidified plans for a forthcoming six-part docuseries on Apple TV+ covering Messi’s time in MLS, promising “unprecedented access to Messi and his new Inter Miami family.”

The project is separate from the company’s previously announced four-part documentary, which focuses more on Messi’s overall career and his triumphant run with Argentina for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. 

Apple will work with New York-based production company Smuggler Entertainment on both efforts. 

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

@chef__tezz/Instagram

Inside the NFL’s Private Chef Network

Private chefs are the unsung architects of player performance.

How Vanderbilt Went From SEC Doormat to Dark Horse CFP Candidate

After beating LSU, Clark Lea said: “Internally, we expect to win.”
May 27, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell (9) shoots a three point basket over New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) during the third quarter of game four of the eastern conference finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse

NBA Stars Swap Wine With League Friends and Foes

A wine-exchange tradition emerged from the bubble season’s close quarters.
May 25, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Derek Jeter walks the red carpet on Sunday, May 25, 2025, ahead of the 109th running of the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The Players’ Tribune Is Still Kicking 11 Years Later

Founder Derek Jeter is still closely involved in the publication.

Featured Today

Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson (22) celebrates with her teammates after her last second shot to take the lead 90-88 against the Phoenix Mercury in Game 3 of the WNBA Finals at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on Oct. 8, 2025.
exclusive

Standoff Over WNBA’s Future Has Dominated Finals

CBA negotiations have stolen the spotlight from the Aces’ dominant performance.
Paul Cartier
October 5, 2025

Sports Organists Are Still Thriving in the Era of Raucous Arena Music

“When they walk out and they see a real organ guy, it’s like, ‘Wow.’”
Sep 27, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Brewers center fielder Jackson Chourio (11) rounds the bases after hitting a home run during the sixth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at American Family Field.
October 4, 2025

Milwaukee Moneyball: Brewers Are Beating MLB’s Deeper Pockets

Milwaukee is holding its own against big-budget competitors.
Kōloa Rum Company Rum Rusher
September 27, 2025

Panthers Bubbly, Jets Wine, Manning Whiskey: The Sports Booze Boom

A sommelier dives into the sports booze trend—and tries Jets wine.
Sponsored

How HOKA is Reimagining the NIL Relationship

Fans can now follow their favorite golfers and experience every marquee moment at the Ryder Cup — thanks to innovation from T-Mobile.
October 19, 2025

Jannik Sinner’s $6M Saudi Payday Tops Any Grand Slam Purse

The other five participants received $1.5 million.
Oct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) hands off the ball in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium.
October 20, 2025

Mac Jones, Daniel Jones Cash In on Big Incentive Money

Both quarterbacks have hit big contract incentives just halfway through the season.
Sponsored

How Jenny Just Is Shaping the Future of Sports Ownership

Jenny Just on bringing her investment experience to sports ownership.
Kevin Durant
October 19, 2025

Durant’s $30M Discount Still Makes Him Highest NBA Career Earner

The deal will put Durant at $598 million in career earnings.
Jan 8, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Carter Hart (79) makes a save against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the second period at Wells Fargo Center
October 16, 2025

Golden Knights Add Hockey Canada Trial’s Carter Hart

Hart is the only acquitted player to sign with an NHL team.
Tiger Woods of Jupiter Links GC sits during a break in their TGL golf match against Atlanta Drive GC at SoFi Center on March 4, 2025, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
October 13, 2025

Latest Tiger Woods Surgery Bad News for TGL, PGA Tour Champions

Woods is recovering from his seventh back surgery in 11 years.
Nov 28, 2023; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils center Michael McLeod (20) celebrates his goal against the New York Islanders during the first period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit:
October 9, 2025

Hockey Canada Trial’s Michael McLeod Signs Outside NHL

Fans in Carolina protested the team’s interest in the Hockey Canada 5.