New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo on Sunday raised the possibility of allowing sporting events to take place again, but behind closed doors to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. ” We want to allow sport to restart, so that people have an activity to watch on TV “, He explained during his daily press conference.
– –
« What sports can work without an audience?, Cuomo continued. Which sports can be economically viable without having to sell tickets in their stadiums or halls? All leagues and sports championships, whether professional or amateur, have been shut down in the United States since mid-March, with very few exceptions;
– –
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), the main organizer of wrestling matches, was thus authorized to operate in Florida. Several American racetracks, especially in Florida, also continue to organize races, without an audience. But, none of the major sports championships in the United States (NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL) has yet announced a resumption date.
– –
“If owners can make money instead of nothing at all, why not? “
Andrew Cuomo, Governor of New York State
— –
« Be creative. Try to find a solution, urged Andrew Cuomo, explaining that he spoke with sports leaders. If the players can earn more than by staying at home and the owners (the clubs) can make a turnover rather than nothing at all, why not? I would like to see that. »
– –
According to Andrew Zimbalist, professor of sports economics at Smith College in Massachusetts, each major American league (NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL) derives, at a minimum, 40% of its income from ticket sales. But, in the case of all other championships and leagues in the United States, the turnover from box office receipts is significantly higher, as the revenues from broadcast rights are significantly lower.
– – .
