Vic's Real Customer Theory
A reader claims sports fans aren't the real customer, argues that this impacts political displays
Reader Vic has sent me intriguing theories before and today is no exception. This time, we have an economically-grounded take (with graphs and everything!) on why sports teams seem glib about offending fans on political grounds, particularly in one direction.
Do I agree with all aspects of Vic’s email? Well, it’s complicated. I think he’s bringing up a great point about the massive divergence between team sale price and actual team profitability. That’s a chasm that yields implications. But I’d push back that leagues have, on occasion, pulled back from offending red state fan sensibilities. I’d also add that I’m not certain a team advertising the “correct” politics influences its eventual sales price. That being said, there is something happening in the sports world that overlaps with Vic’s arguments and findings.
Take it away, Vic…