Red Sox Fans Sue Team Over Alleged 'Bait-and-Switch' Ticket Tactics

Lawsuit claims the team used 'junk fees' and 'drip pricing' to inflate ticket prices

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:31pm

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A trio of Red Sox fans have filed a class-action lawsuit against the team, accusing the franchise of false advertising and 'bait-and-switch' tactics when selling tickets to games and events at Fenway Park. The lawsuit alleges the Red Sox would advertise low ticket prices, but then add mandatory fees at the last minute that could increase the cost by up to 150%, violating Massachusetts consumer protection laws.

Why it matters

This lawsuit is part of a growing trend of sports teams being accused of deceptive ticket pricing practices, with the Nationals and Giants facing similar lawsuits in recent months. These cases highlight concerns over transparency and fairness in the ticketing industry, which can have a significant financial impact on fans.

The details

The lawsuit claims the Red Sox's use of 'drip pricing' and 'junk fees' was 'both unfair and deceptive.' It alleges the practice has cost purchasers millions of dollars over the past few years. The Red Sox have stated they have 'always complied with applicable state and federal laws,' but have not provided further comment on the pending litigation.

  • The lawsuit was filed in Massachusetts earlier this month.
  • The alleged 'bait-and-switch' tactics occurred from 2022 to at least 2024.

The players

Red Sox

The Boston Red Sox professional baseball team.

Trio of Red Sox Fans

A group of three Red Sox fans who have filed a class-action lawsuit against the team.

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What they’re saying

“While we don't comment on pending litigation, we have always complied with applicable state and federal laws.”

— Red Sox (WCVB Channel 5 in Boston)

What’s next

The judge will need to decide whether to certify the lawsuit as a class action, which would allow other Red Sox fans to join the case.

The takeaway

This lawsuit highlights the growing scrutiny over ticket pricing practices in professional sports, with teams facing allegations of deceptive tactics that can significantly impact fans' wallets. The outcome of this case could set an important precedent for transparency and fairness in the ticketing industry.