sports
Grandfather, 89, denied entry to World Cup match after resale tickets failed to transfer
An 89-year-old San Diego man was unable to enter a stadium for a Mexican national team match after tickets purchased for $6,000 on a resale platform did not load. The company later refunded the purchase and offered replacement tickets for a future game.
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An 89-year-old San Diego man missed a Mexican national team match after tickets bought for $6,000 on a resale platform did not appear in the required app at the stadium gate. The pair arrived at Estadio Akron in Zapopan six hours before kickoff. The tickets, purchased through StubHub, remained undelivered despite confirmation that payment had cleared.
Ticket transfer rules StubHub directed the buyer to wait for the seller to complete transfer through FIFA’s system. Customer service later stated the tickets would be available only at halftime. The tickets never arrived. After the first half ended scoreless, the man watched from outside as the crowd reacted to the opening goal.
Company response A StubHub spokesperson said the company was “heartbroken” for the pair and processed a full refund. The company also offered a VIP package with travel support for one of Mexico’s remaining matches. Mexico’s next scheduled game is against Czechia on June 24 in Mexico City.
The buyer declined the offer, citing the city’s elevation and the man’s high blood pressure. The spokesperson noted that World Cup tickets must move through FIFA’s marketplace and that sellers who fail to deliver face penalties or suspension.
