Hottest ticket of Crew season moved to Cleveland
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Lionel Messi scored two goals in Inter Miam's 3-2 win over the Crew at Lower.com Field in October. Photo: Jason Mowry/Getty Images
When the Columbus Crew host Inter Miami and arguably the best player in world soccer history next season, they'll be playing in an NFL stadium 130 miles from home.
Why it matters: Since Lionel Messi arrived in MLS, tickets have skyrocketed for every team's match against the legendary Argentinian. Now, Columbus fans will have to drive to Cleveland to see him in 2025.
- Fans are furious, and Dispatch columnist Michael Arace called the decision a "blatant cash grab."
Driving the news: The Crew announced Wednesday that the team would be hosting Messi and Inter Miami on April 19 at Huntington Bank Field, the Browns' stadium in Cleveland, rather than their usual home turf.
- The Crew have played U.S. Open Cup games in Northeast Ohio, but it will be the first time they have ever played an MLS game there.
- The 67,000-seat stadium affords them the opportunity to sell more tickets to fans eager to see Messi in action.
Context: Crew owners Haslam Sports Group also own the Browns.
- Last year, Crew president of business operations Josh Glessing told WEWS-TV that if the Crew had hosted a playoff game against Messi, the team would have considered moving it to Cleveland.
Friction point: Fans in Columbus will need to make the five-hour commute to Cleveland for a "home" game.
- The Nordecke Board, which represents supporter groups, said in a statement that they were "disappointed" in the decision "even after we repeatedly voiced our opposition and concerns."
- But, they said, they plan to do "everything they're permitted to support the team at Browns Stadium in addition to throwing the most Massive watch party possible right here in Columbus."
What they're saying: In a release, Glessing said the team acknowledges "the match will not be as convenient for everyone" but that the larger stadium allows for "significantly more Crew fans" and the "opportunity to engage with new fans in Northeast Ohio."
- Team spokesperson Rob McBurnett referred to Glessing's comments and declined further comment.
What's next: Tickets go on sale to the general public Jan. 14 at 10am.
- The match will still be part of season ticket packages, with seats "strategically positioned in an equivalent or improved location" compared to Lower.com Field.
- Season ticket members can also "opt-in at a later date" for a free parking pass, a voucher for a hot dog, chips and drink, and tickets to "a post-match on-pitch experience."
Editor's note: This story has been corrected to reflect that the Crew's game against Inter Miami will be not their first game in Northeast Ohio but their first MLS game there.