As Durban becomes the spotlight of the much anticipated MTN 8 Finals this Saturday, the Host City is scoring big returns from being a sold out match within 4 hours of ticket release. What is known to be the biggest and most fierce rivalry in soccer history between South Africa’s Greatest, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, is going to be witnessed live by 52 0000 ardent supporters at this nail biting match that kicks off at 20h15 from the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Phillip Sithole, Head of Durban Tourism was ecstatic when the tickets were released, within 90 minutes, 30 000 tickets were sold and within the 4 hours, a sold out Game, including the sale of 4000 prime suite tickets. He added that the city was overjoyed when Durban became host city for the MTN 8 Finals, it’s an opportunity to showcase our passion, support and ultimate experiences when it comes to sports tourism. The iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium has also proven to be a winning venue for both the Teams and the clubs. The city is also looking forward to the influential business leaders that will be descending on our shores for the big clash, making Durban the key spotlight this weekend.
The city is expecting an influx of visitors and fans arriving through the airport from Friday. The economic impact of the MTN 8 Finals is approx 68 million rand and direct spend is 5.5 million rand, with 22% of the spectators coming from outside KZN and 38 % within KZN and 40 % from Durban.
Tsogo Sun’s Mike Jackson, Director of Operations, stated that all of their properties over this weekend in Durban have reached 100 % occupancy. This is largely due to the World Youth Chess Championships, Durban Business Fair and the MTN 8 Finals.
The MTN 8 Finals has allowed all tourism stakeholders, the city and the Province to collectively work together to positively position the city of Durban and KZN, as a premier events destination. Durban Tourism officials acknowledge that hosting a Game of this magnitude is in line with the City strategy of ensuring that Durban maintains its reputation as Africa’s sports and events capital and to showcase to the world the exceptional world class facilities.