June 9 – FIFA has unveiled the latest entry (grift) in its expanding monetisation drive around the World Cup, namely, no pun intended, a $79 fee for fans to have their name displayed on the big screen at tournament venues before matches.

Through the so-called ‘Super Shoutout’ programme, all 72 group-stage matches are listed for purchase, with fans able to pay $79 (excluding tax) to have their name shown on the stadium scoreboard.

While the page promotes a ‘shoutout slot’ appearing “during the match” and “at the right moment in the right game,” the terms tell a slightly different story, clarifying that shoutouts will be displayed “during pregame” and will “not be displayed during live match play.”

FIFA further notes that “availability is limited and processed on a first-come, first-served basis,” and that “exact duration, and placement are not guaranteed” – users cannot select a time slot at purchase. Shoutouts are described as “intended for the in-stadium experience only,” with no guarantee of visibility to all attendees or inclusion in broadcast, digital, or other media coverage.

Buyers can purchase up to four slots per order, meaning a maximum of $316 before tax, with credit cards charged only once the shoutout has been “approved at FIFA’s sole discretion.” Sales close 72 hours before kick-off.

The launch lands in the middle of an already turbulent commercial period for FIFA. Ticket pricing has triggered a formal complaint to the European Commission, with Football Supporters Europe describing the costs as “a monumental betrayal of the tradition of the World Cup.” 

From ticket prices and resale concerns to bottled water rules and now $79 scoreboard moments, FIFA appears to be testing how many incremental fan-facing revenue streams it can layer on top of a tournament whose pull is already commercially unmatched.

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