Understanding Super Bowl Ticket Distribution and Availability for NFL Season Ticket Holders

Many NFL fans dream of attending the Super Bowl, the pinnacle of the league's championship season. However, not all season ticket holders automatically receive Super Bowl tickets, and the distribution process can be complex and varied. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the challenges and opportunities of obtaining Super Bowl tickets as a season ticket holder.

Why Super Bowl Tickets Aren't Automatic for Season Ticket Holders

Despite the allure of owning a season ticket, standard Super Bowl tickets don't come with automatic entry for the vast majority of fans. While some teams might offer their season ticket holders priority access through a lottery or other forms of preferential selection, it’s important to note that this is not a universal practice and is typically not guaranteed. The distribution process is more structured and often involves various stakeholders, including sponsors and media partners.

How NFL Divides Super Bowl Tickets

The NFL carefully allocates Super Bowl tickets, with a significant portion distributed based on league standings and organizational structure. Here’s a breakdown of the allocation process:

League Allocation

- 17.5 percent: For the AFC Champion - 17.5 percent: For the NFC Champion - 5 percent: For the Host Team - 34.8 percent: For the remaining 29 teams (1.2 percent per team) - 25.2 percent: Controlled by the NFL and sold to various partners, sponsors, media, and networks

Chances for Season Ticket Holders

While primary allocation might be challenging for many season ticket holders, there are still opportunities. For teams who advance to the Super Bowl, a portion of their allocated tickets may be made available to their supporters. In these cases, tickets can be acquired through a lottery system where season ticket holders have a chance to purchase at face value. The face value for Super Bowl tickets has fluctuated over the years but typically ranges from 950 USD for nosebleed seats to 5000 USD for skybox seating (as of 2018).

It's crucial for season ticket holders to check their teams' specific policies and notices. Winning the lottery does not necessarily obligate buyers to purchase the tickets; however, it provides an excellent opportunity for potential resale on the secondary market for a significant profit.

Secondary Market and Resales

For those not fortunate enough to win a lottery or purchase tickets directly from their team, the secondary market is the primary avenue for obtaining Super Bowl tickets. Major online ticket resellers like StubHub and SeatGeek facilitate transactions between buyers and sellers. Ticket prices on the secondary market can be substantial, with fluctuations driven by supply and demand.

For instance, in 2018, the Super Bowl saw the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Rams, leading to resale prices significantly higher, with the average ticket price for Super Bowl LIII in Atlanta exceeding 7000 USD. It's essential for buyers to be aware of the risks and opportunities in the secondary market, as prices can be highly volatile.

Strategic Ticket Buying Tips

To secure a favorable deal, savvy buyers should be aware of the timing and strategic aspects of the Super Bowl ticket market:

Wait for Last-Minute Deals: Historically, ticket prices on the secondary market tend to drop closer to game day. However, closely monitor other costs such as travel expenses which can skyrocket as the game approaches. Consider the NFL On Location Experience: For those willing to invest, the NFL offers an alternative early purchasing option through the NFL On Location Experience. This includes premium tickets and exclusive experiences, though prices can be quite high. Monitor Confirmed Game Participation: As teams confirm their participation in the Super Bowl, their official presence can drive up ticket prices on the secondary market. Be proactive and monitor these updates.

Conclusion

While the process of obtaining Super Bowl tickets can be daunting, particularly for season ticket holders, there are strategic opportunities available. Checking with your specific team’s policies, understanding the allocation and resale dynamics, and being aware of the strategic timing can help maximize your chances of securing a ticket at a reasonable price.