UEFA Super Cup Tickets Distributed via Blockchain System
On Wednesday, the 15th of August, the UEFA Super Cup took place, which is known for putting the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League winners against each other. This year, the edition took place in Tallinn, Estonia and was won by Atletico Madrid, which defeated Real Madrid 4-2.
While the match was competitive and fun to see, behind the scenes, a blockchain-based ticketing system was being trialled out for the first time. Traditionally, soccer match tickers are put on paper, due to the sentimental value of holding on to it as a token of appreciation.
However, sporting organizations throughout the world are actively switching to mobile ticketing, as it represents a quicker, more efficient and more secure method of providing admission to matches. This time, the UEFA Super Cup used a blockchain-based system to guarantee and verify the validity of tickets, directly via the user’s mobile phone.
By doing so, UEFA was able to reduce ticket fraud cases to 0, while also efficiently organizing admission, and keeping track of match-goers. In return, this resulted in a smoother processing experience for the fans, while also making work easier for the organizational team.
Blockchain has often been described as ‘revolutionizing for any industry’, and its implementation in this scenario, showcases that mobile, blockchain-based tickets are indeed a better choice for sporting events. Similarly, the system can be adapted to provide users with a smoother entry process to any venue requiring tickets, as users only need to show the digital ticket prior to admission.
Based on everything that has been outlined so far, it is expected that the system’s success at the UEFA Super Cup will encourage other sport organizations to adopt similar strategies.