The Tampa Bay Lightning’s thrilling offence isn’t the only thing upsetting opposing fan bases this post-season – so is the team’s ticket purchasing policy.
According to the team’s Ticketmaster page: “Amalie Arena is located in Tampa, FL. Sales to this event will be restricted to residents of Florida. Residency will be based on credit card billing address. Orders by residents outside the selected area will be canceled without notice and refunds given.”
This means if you’re a Chicago Blackhawks fan wanting to make the trip to watch Game 1, 2, 5* or 7* of the Stanley Cup final in person, you won’t be able to get tickets unless you happen to own property in Florida (or you don’t mind dealing with scalpers).
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Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel was critical of this Tuesday.
“Chicago Blackhawks supporters are known to be among the best in the NHL, and certainly we wish the Tampa Bay Lightning management would welcome Chicago fans to their city and not be afraid to let them into their arena for the Stanley Cup finals,” Emanuel said in a press release.
“As mayor of Chicago, I welcome Tampa fans – and hockey fans from around the country – to fly to Chicago and enjoy our world-class hotels, restaurants, cultural attractions, and then go watch Stanley Cup hockey in Chicago.”
In addition to limiting tickets to Florida residents, the organization has certain guidelines fans must follow. Fans that purchase tickets in specific areas of the arena will not be allowed to wear any logos of the opposing team.
“Chase Club and Lexus Lounge ticket holders – please note that for all 2015 NHL Playoff Games at Amalie Arena, only Tampa Bay Lightning team logos will be permitted in these areas,” Ticketmaster says. “Fans wearing visiting team logos will be asked to remove them while in the Chase Club and Lexus Lounge areas.”
Emanuel has a friendly bet going with Tampa mayor Bob Buckhorn where the losing city’s mayor will have to send a gift basket of treats
“I’ve offered up to send some of Tampa’s best beer and best food to Mayor Emanuel should the Lightning not prevail, but candidly, my staff is already looking forward to enjoying Chicago pizza and cheesecake,” Buckhorn said in a recent statement.
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