FIFA and partner Match Hospitality are expecting record income from hospitality sales ahead of next year’s World Cup in Qatar after agents committed to more than $260m in sales targets.
Hospitality packages for Qatar 2022 games went on sale today (February 1), after the tender process for sales agents was recently completed by Match. Representatives in more than 70 territories will be authorised to sell the packages on a first-come, first-served basis.
That sales targets figure of $260m compares with commitments of $219m at the same point in the Russia 2018 marketing process – an increase of some 20%, notwithstanding the current pandemic.
Strong demand from hospitality customers is also expected after the pre-sales purchase period generated significant interest from FIFA’s Commercial Affiliates and prominent Qatari client groups.
“We are delighted to see such extraordinary interest in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, when following challenging times, the world can come together for a global festival of football,” said Nick Brown, FIFA’s director of commercial revenue.
“The FIFA Hospitality Programme has a proven track record of delivering a fantastic range of products, and in late 2022 we will open the door to world-class services and memorable experiences for hospitality clients.”
Hospitality ticket prices for Qatar 2022 start at less than $1,000, rising to in excess of $2.6m for a 40-seat suite in the Lusail Stadium for the 2022 FIFA World Cup final on December 18 2022.
The FIFA Hospitality Programme will offer guests packages that will include match tickets plus a wide range of on-site services at the stadiums, such as gourmet catering, premium beverages, preferential parking, entertainment and gifts, as well as additional ancillary services, including accommodation and air transportation.
Jaime Byrom, executive chairman of Match, which has partnered with FIFA since 2011, said: “The remarkable response we have had to our pre-sales has further cemented our belief that despite the events of recent months due to the global pandemic, there remains unwavering enthusiasm and interest in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Hospitality Programme.
“Qatar promises to deliver an amazing tournament that will capitalise on its principal attributes; the close proximity of its eight stadiums which are all located in or within a short driving distance of Doha, a fascinating region with unique attractions, spectacular state-of-the-art stadiums, and traditional Arabic hospitality.”
Share this