This year's musical performer at the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas is generating a lot of buzz.
Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is even offering to buy back "early bird" tickets from buyers and give ticket holders an extra $50.
Just like at a music festival, the Grand Prix features artists performing before the race. It's a pretty common practice, but this year's performer is so high-profile that many fans think COTA could make a bigger profit by reselling tickets at higher prices than the initial $299 fee.
The identity of the musical guest is still unknown. According to COTA founding partner Bobby Epstein, this guest is the biggest since Taylor Swift performed here a few years ago.
Some of the famous artists who have graced the stage at the Grand Prix in Austin include Britney Spears, Bruno Mars, and Billy Joel.
COTA will reveal the lineup for entertainment on April 29, and those who purchased early bird tickets have until May 6 to resell their ticket for $350.
Fans on the official COTA page are accusing the company of being scalpers for selling their own event tickets. Some fans believe they could make a higher profit by reselling the tickets through a third party for more than $50.
According to Epstein, once the lineup is announced, he doesn't think anyone will want to sell their tickets. In response to the criticism, Epstein mentioned to CNN that COTA may increase the price of the buyback.
Epstein mentioned that the early bird buyers received great value on their purchase and he hopes they will continue to support in the future.
The offer included a general admission three-day weekend grounds pass.
Epstein mentioned that COTA has already sold over 10,000 early bird general admission ground passes. He mentioned that even after the artist announcement, there will still be a limited number of general admission tickets available at a price below $400. Last year, the general admission price was approximately $475.
The Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from October 18-20.
General admission seating is one of the simplest choices for a race that is famous for its luxury and elegance. Private air-conditioned suites and club seats can cost thousands of dollars.
According to Epstein, the focus is not on reselling tickets for a profit. Instead, it is about showing the worth of the tickets and acknowledging the buyers who recognized that value.
Editor's P/S:
The upcoming Formula 1 United States Grand Prix in Austin is generating excitement, but also controversy. The offer from Circuit of the Americas (COTA) to buy back "early bird" tickets for $50 more than their purchase price has raised questions about the company's motives. Some fans believe COTA could make a larger profit by reselling the tickets at higher prices, while others have accused the company of scalping.
COTA's founding partner, Bobby Epstein, has defended the offer, stating that the early bird buyers received great value on their purchase and that he believes the identity of the musical guest, which is still unknown, will make fans want to hold onto their tickets. However, fans on the official COTA page have expressed their dissatisfaction with the offer, and some believe they could make a higher profit by reselling the tickets through a third party. The situation highlights the tension between the desire of fans to secure tickets at a reasonable price and the desire of event organizers to maximize their profits.