U.S. authorities have confiscated $39.5 million worth of counterfeit sports merchandise ahead of Super Bowl LIX, officials said Wednesday. The crackdown, part of “Operation Team Player,” targeted fake jerseys, hats, and memorabilia.
The year-long operation, led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the National Football League (NFL), and the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center, resulted in over 214,000 counterfeit items being seized. Since its launch in 2013, the initiative has intercepted more than $455 million in fake sports merchandise.
Officials urged fans to buy from reputable sources, noting that authentic jerseys sell for $149.99 on the official NFL store, with customized Super Bowl jerseys priced at $179.99.
With Super Bowl LIX set for February 9, 2025, in New Orleans, authorities are also cracking down on ticket scams. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill warned that fraudsters are working overtime to exploit eager fans. The New Orleans Police Department, along with Homeland Security and NFL representatives, will monitor illegal vendors.
The city expects 200,000 visitors in the lead-up to the game—double its usual weekly influx. The Kansas City Chiefs will face the Philadelphia Eagles, with the Chiefs aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive title.
Donald Trump plans to attend, making history as the first sitting U.S. president to be a spectator at the NFL championship game.
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