Copa del Rey ticket prices shows the true pain in Spain over the economy

Already criticised after hawking the national team around the globe to play friendlies to the highest bidders, the Federation has priced tickets for the Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid on May 17 between Dh281 and Dh1,192.40.

Cristiano Ronaldo and his Real Madrid teammates won't have to worry about buying a ticket to the Copa del Rey. They are playing Atletico in it. Fans of both teams, however, are facing high ticket pricShow more

Spain's economic problems dominate headlines, yet the austerity measures have not influenced the decision making at the Spanish Football Federation.

Already criticised after hawking the national team around the globe to play friendlies to the highest bidders, the Federation has priced tickets for the Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid on May 17 between €60 (Dh281) and €250.

Rival Madrid fan groups known for their enmity issued a joint statement describing the prices as "completely unacceptable" and demanding that "prices respond to the current economic climate so that fans of all economic backgrounds can support their team in the final".

They also point out that the Bernabeu, the venue of the final, boasts 30,000 more seats than either the Vicente Calderon or the Mestalla, the past two venues to stage Copa del Rey finals.

With all the extra revenue going to the Federation, there is room for a more flexible pricing structure.

The fan protests have met a wall of silence and they shouldn't expect any support from the clubs they support, nor their players. They are the prime beneficiaries of the high ticket prices and are reluctant to speak out because the connection between prices and wages quickly will be made.

The Federation know they will sell out the game, but who do they want in the stadium? Wealthy fans and tourists who cherry pick their games, or poorer fans who buy the cheapest season tickets yet go to every match?

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