Organisers Slash India vs Uruguay Ticket Prices by 90 Percent
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has slashed ticket prices for the upcoming international friendly between India and Uruguay by 90 percent, reducing rates for select blocks from Rs 1,999 to Rs 199. The decision follows a disappointing turnout at the October 3 match against Brazil, where only 51,000 spectators attended the 85,000-capacity Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan stadium in Kolkata.
Uruguay friendly tickets were priced at approximately one-tenth the cost of the preceding Brazil match at the same stadium.
Attendance Challenges in Kolkata
The move to lower prices for the C2 Left and C2 Right blocks is a direct attempt to boost attendance for the October 6 fixture. Despite the presence of high-profile Brazilian stars like Vinicius Jr. and Marquinhos, the previous match failed to fill the stadium, prompting concerns among organisers regarding public interest in the current series. The Uruguay match serves as the final leg of India's three-match series against South American opposition, following a 1-1 draw against Panama in Bengaluru and the 0-4 loss to Brazil.
Goodwill Gesture for Messi Tour Fans
In addition to the price cuts, the West Bengal government has introduced a goodwill initiative for fans affected by the chaotic Lionel Messi G.O.A.T. tour event held in Kolkata last December. According to The Indian Express, state Sports Minister Dr. Indranil Khan confirmed that spectators who purchased tickets for the Messi event but were unable to watch the player properly are eligible for complimentary passes for the Uruguay match. Eligible fans can collect these passes on October 5 by presenting their original paid ticket and a government-issued photo identity document at designated collection points across the city.
West Bengal's complimentary ticket initiative addresses widespread grievances from the December 13, 2025 Lionel Messi G.O.A.T. tour appearance at Salt Lake Stadium. West Bengal sports authorities scheduled complimentary pass collections for October 5 from 11 AM to 5 PM for Messi tour ticket-holders presenting original paid stubs and government photo IDs.
West Bengal Sports Minister Dr. Indranil Khan detailed the state's goodwill pass distribution mechanism for football supporters on X.