The Messi Effect: Is Harrison NJ Ready for Inter Miami FC v Red Bulls

 On Saturday, August 26, 2023, the soccer world will turn its attention to the Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey. The Major League Soccer game between Inter Miami FC and the New York Red Bulls promises to be more than just a regular match. The recent addition of soccer legend Lionel Messi to Inter Miami FC has created a ripple effect throughout the league, especially in terms of ticket sales and prices. Is Harrison NJ ready for what is expected to be a sell-out crowd at Red Bull Arena? 

The Messi Effect on Ticket Sales and Prices 

Lionel Messi's move to Inter Miami CF has been nothing short of transformative for the club and the league. Ticket prices for Inter Miami matches have seen a significant surge. For instance, the cheapest ticket for Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup match against Mexico City’s Cruz Azul jumped from $29 to a staggering $459. Similarly, the get-in price for Miami’s home match against the New York Red Bulls on August 26, 2023, skyrocketed from $30 to $512. 

This "Messi effect" is not limited to home games. The match against reigning MLS champion Los Angeles FC on September 3 saw ticket prices soar from $81 to $599. The average home game ticket price for Inter Miami also jumped from $152 at the start of the season to $935, marking a 515% increase. 

The Game at Red Bull Arena 

The Red Bull Arena, with its capacity of 25,000 seats, is likely to witness a full house. Given the Messi mania, it's almost a certainty that every seat will be occupied. Fans will be eager to watch the soccer maestro in action, and the game promises to be a spectacle. 

However, with great popularity comes great responsibility. The Harrison Police Department is anticipated to issue a traffic bulletin and close South Frank E. Rodgers Blvd as part of its traffic plan. This is a standard procedure to manage the massive influx of fans and ensure safety. 

Resident's Concerns 

The decision to close South Frank E. Rodgers Blvd has not been without its share of controversy. Residents who rely on this boulevard have expressed their concerns and displeasure. Extended closures, especially during major events at the Red Bull Arena, have been a point of contention. Residents are demanding that they be allowed to access their homes during such events. Their concerns are valid, and the authorities must strike a balance between managing event traffic and ensuring residents are not overly inconvenienced. 

The arrival of Lionel Messi to Inter Miami CF and the MLS has brought renewed interest and excitement to the league. While this is a boon for soccer in the U.S., it also brings with it challenges that need to be addressed. As the game between Inter Miami FC and the New York Red Bulls approaches, all eyes will be on the Red Bull Arena, not just for the action on the field, but also for how the event is managed of the field on the streets of Harrison NJ. 

You can purchase tickets for the game on Ticketmaster. 

Let Us Know Your Thoughts on our Community Discussion Board.  If you have not signed up yet to participate you can Sign Up now.