In a trailblazing initiative, the largest administrative body for association football in Europe, Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) conducted successful ticket distribution with the use of blockchain technology. The tickets were distributed for the UEFA Super Cup final on 16 August 2018, played between Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid, in which former vanquished the latter with a final score of 4-2, with two extra-time goals.
With blockchain technology at its core, UEFA launched the new ticket distribution method with an aim to counter duplication, hoarding and frauds. The tickets were sold via iOS and Android apps based on a blockchain ledger, which is believed to be much more secure than conventional ticketing systems.
Blockchain in particular have proved to be revolutionary in tackling some of the most pressing issues facing global ticketing market, among which automated bots for purchasing tickets and hoarding are two of the apparent challenges. However, blockchain use cases in ticket distribution system is not a new thing, as many blockchain service providers like Crypto.tickets, Aventus, Cloudchain and more, are already into plugging such loopholes by introducing traceability, legally binding contracts, and transparency in the ticket distribution systems.
According to the official announcement on UEFA.com, the blockchain-based ticket distribution was integrated with mobile Bluetooth devices at the stadium entrances, which read the ticket details to grant access to the ticket holder.
Before it was made official, UEFA first tested the ticketing system on 50% tickets for Europa League final in May 2018 between Atlético Madrid and Marseille. After a successful trial, the blockchain-based system was finally launched for the Super Cup finale. The official article by UEFA also indicates that the international body intends to further refine and use the same system in future.
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