European football governing body UEFA has warned fans ahead of the upcoming Champions League, Europa League and Conference League finals about the dangers of purchasing tickets on the secondary market.
UEFA has issued a statement explaining that tickets to the finals are sold by UEFA and are subject to strict terms and conditions which prevent unauthorised advertisement, resale or transfer. This means that tickets offered by third parties across marketplaces, social media and secondary ticketing platforms are being advertised in breach of the terms and conditions.
The governing body monitors the internet, taking action – which includes cancelling tickets – when unauthorised advertisements are found.
The statement said: “Fans should also be aware that third parties offering for sale tickets on the internet are often not in possession of the tickets which they claim to have for sale, despite demanding exorbitant prices for such tickets.
“In addition, UEFA is conscious that the demand for tickets to the finals may result in counterfeit tickets entering the secondary market, as has occurred at previous finals. Fans are advised that any such counterfeit tickets will not gain entry to the stadiums.”
UEFA stressed that ticket sales to the general public are only carried out by the organisation, with the teams that have reached the final also receiving an allocation. The clubs are then responsible and are currently in the process of selling tickets.
The statement adds: “Whilst UEFA understands that there will be fans who have been unsuccessful in their application for tickets, fans are strongly advised not to travel to the finals without tickets or purchase tickets on the secondary market.
“In order to maintain the safety and security of fans, ticket holders should be aware that checks will be carried out at the finals and the local authorities in the cities will take action against the unauthorised resale of tickets.”
Image: Tim Bechervaise on Unsplash