Visa's Contactless Technology Powers Half of Purchases at the World Cup

Visa data shows that international travellers from the United States and Mexico continue to lead in-stadium purchases for foreign spenders at the FIFA World Cup

Visa, the Official Payment Services Partner of FIFA, released an analysis of spending inside the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia stadiums from the opening match on 14 June through the semi-finals on 11 July.

The data highlights the increased consumer adoption of innovative payment technology, as 50% of purchases with Visa in tournament venues utilised contactless transactions, including cards, mobile devices and wearables.

Cardholders on average spent 1,408 rubles/£17.15 per transaction inside the stadiums throughout the tournament, with fans from Russia spending the most, followed by the US and Mexico, respectively.

The largest average individual purchases were seen on in-stadium merchandise (4,200 rubles/£51.2), Fan Fest merchandise (3,300 rubles/£40.2) and in-stadium food and beverage (800 rubles/£9.8).

“The company‘s sponsorships enable us to showcase the latest in payment innovation on a global stage. Cardholders’ spending data during the FIFA World Cup illustrates the growth of contactless payments in Russia and fans’ reliance on quick and secure payments so that they can spend less time in line and more time focused on the pitch,” said Lynne Biggar, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Visa Inc.

Of the 62 matches played at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia thus far, the opening match between the host nation and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium had the highest payment volume, with fans spending over 55 million rubles/£670,000. Of the total spend at the Opening Match, 69% came from Russian citizens and 31% came from non-Russian citizens.

“The Russian payment industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation and has seen huge growth. Through our partnership with FIFA, the company is focused on providing fans in Russia with new ways to pay, whilst advancing our business in market,” said Ekaterina Petelina, Country Manager, Visa Russia.

Visa was a four-time Global winner of the World Branding Awards in the Credit Cards category.