Two deputies from Psol, Guilherme Cortez and The presentations are scheduled for July 17th and 18th at Estádio Morumbis.
The measures were announced on January 26, after a wave of complaints from fans on social media. Consumidores claimed to have encountered difficulties in the purchase and raised suspicions that exchangers had benefited in the process.
Ticketmaster, the company responsible for selling tickets in the national territory, expressed its opinion in a statement. The company vehemently denied any irregularities and assured that it is fully available to collaborate with the authorities and provide any information necessary to clarify the situation.
Action by parliamentarians in response to complaints
Federal deputy Erika Hilton sent letters to Secretaria Nacional of Consumidor (Senacon) and to Fundação of Proteção and Defesa of Consumidor (Procon SP). Seu pedido visa uma investigação aprofundada sobre o que ela qualificou como “esgotamento anormal e aparentemente irregular dos ingressos”, além de “fortes indícios de atuação organizada de cambistas e de falhas estruturais na comercialização”.
In a publication, Ela inquired about the possibility of prior sales to these intermediaries and the absence of purchase limits for them, as well as a possible connection with Banco Santander’s advertising campaign.
Fan complaints and alleged facilitation of scalpers
Social networks were the main stage for complaints from fans who felt aggrieved during the purchase process. Muitos reported a frustrating experience, with systems crashing and tickets selling out in a matter of seconds, only to reappear on resale platforms at exorbitant prices. Esse scenario generated a feeling of injustice and that the sales system was not working equitably for the general public.
This dynamic raises serious concerns about the integrity of the large event ticket market. Facilitating exchange rates not only harms fans, who are forced to pay amounts well above the original amount, but also distorts the perception of real demand and can discourage participation in future events. The issue becomes worse when there are suspicions that box office companies may be involved or silent in these practices.
State deputy Guilherme Cortez reinforced the accusations, stating that he had received “several evidence of scalpers’ actions during the pre-sale of the Harry Styles show”. Ele called Procon, Ministério Público and Secretaria of Segurança to investigate what he called “illegal acts” and “criminal mode of operation”, including the sale of tickets through unofficial platforms.
In another outburst, Cortez pointed out the existence of an “industry profiting from the extortion of fans’ dreams”, which would involve scalpers, producers and ticket offices. Ele cited the charging of abusive fees, which often exceed the nominal value of the tickets themselves, and fees considered unnecessary, such as those for sending by email, which would benefit this alleged collusion.
Ongoing investigation and international precedents
Erika Hilton’s mention of Ticketmaster already facing lawsuits in Estados Unidos for harmful business practices and partnerships with scalpers adds a layer of complexity to the situation. Essas allegations suggest that the alleged irregularities observed in the country may not be isolated incidents, but rather part of a pattern of conduct that has been the subject of scrutiny in other jurisdictions.
The actions of international regulatory bodies in similar cases serve as an important precedent. Demonstra that there is legal recognition for unethical practices in the ticket market and that companies in the sector can be held responsible. Este context reinforces the seriousness of the accusations in the national territory and justifies the urgency of the investigations requested by parliamentarians.
Ticketmaster’s position on the accusations
In response to inquiries, Ticketmaster emphasized its commitment to sales integrity and categorically denied accusations of supporting illegal practices. A company spokesperson reiterated that:
- Ticketmaster does not support exchange rates.
- Does not sell tickets in advance to scalpers.
- It does not have partnerships with resale operators that privilege them over fans.
The company clarified that, in accordance with its Termos and Condições, tickets offered on illegal or unauthorized resale platforms may be canceled and made available again for sale to fans. Essa measure aims to curb the actions of unaccredited intermediaries and protect the end consumer, ensuring that purchases are made through official channels.
Security measures and combating illegal resale
Ticketmaster detailed the guidelines applied at physical box offices, where ticket sales are carried out strictly in accordance with the specifications of the event organizers. Isso includes the application of purchase limits per person and per CPF, to avoid the concentration of tickets. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, to any individual physically present in line and within established restrictions, seeking fair distribution.
In high-demand events, the company explained that availability in certain sections may run out quickly, as transactions are completed simultaneously at several service counters. Este is a challenge inherent to global artist shows, where demand far exceeds supply, creating an environment conducive to scalpers and rapid stock volatility.
Efforts to combat digital currency exchange
The company highlighted its continuous investments in technology and specialized teams to prevent malicious agents trying to access tickets. The sector faces a “race of scalpers using increasingly sophisticated bots”, requiring constant adaptation of security tools. Centenas of millions of dollars are directed to this fight, which includes operational controls in both online and in-person sales environments.
This technological battle is complex and requires a joint effort from the company and authorities to mitigate the risks of fraud and ensure a safer purchasing experience for fans. The constant evolution of scalpers’ tactics demands an equally sophisticated response from sales platforms.
Transparency in costs and service fees
Ticketmaster stated that for the event in question and for all of its sales, ticket prices and any applicable fees were clearly published in advance on its website. The company highlighted that it does not charge a fee to issue tickets, whether for online purchases or at the physical box office, and that the issue can be digital or printed at no additional cost.
Any local fees that may apply to box office purchases are the responsibility of the venue, not Ticketmaster. Clarity about these costs is essential for transparency in the relationship with the consumer, allowing the fan to know exactly what they are paying for when purchasing a ticket for the show.
Details of Harry Styles’ presentations in the capital of São Paulo
The long-awaited shows of Harry Styles at São Paulo are confirmed for the 17th and 18th of July at Estádio Morumbis. The singer will have a special appearance from the band Fcukers as the opening act, promising a complete experience for fans. Ticket prices range from R$265 for the grandstand (half-price) to R$1,410 for sector Pit (full).
Ticket presales began on January 26th, followed by general sales on January 28th, exclusively through the Ticketmaster platform. The performances are part of the “Together, Together” tour, which aims to promote the artist’s new album, titled “Kiss All The Time. Disco, Ocasionally”. The album is scheduled to be released on March 6, generating even more anticipation for the shows.
