Ticket prices for Monday's college football national championship game in Miami reached unprecedented levels, mirroring the financial stakes of a Super Bowl or World Cup final.

The average ticket price soared to $4,000 as of Thursday, a near doubling of last year's championship game, according to Victory Live's analysis of major secondary marketplaces. Resale sites listed individual tickets for as high as $30,000, with premium parking spots commanding up to $9,000. Earlier in the week, playoffpremium.com marketed midfield suites, accommodating 18 people, for a staggering $1.2 million.

This surge in pricing reflects a confluence of factors. The University of Miami's unexpected journey to the final, as the lowest-ranked team in the playoffs, ignited fervent local support. Indiana University's Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, added another layer of intrigue, returning to his South Florida roots, captivating a broader audience with his Cuban heritage. The presence of former President Donald Trump further amplified the game's profile.

The exorbitant prices underscore the immense commercial value of high-profile college sports events. The championship game's financial impact extends beyond ticket sales, influencing local businesses, tourism, and media revenue. The University of Miami's Cinderella run generated substantial brand exposure, potentially boosting merchandise sales, future ticket demand, and alumni donations.

Looking ahead, the record-breaking ticket prices may set a new benchmark for future college football championships. The ability of underdog teams and compelling narratives to drive up demand highlights the unpredictable nature of the sports market. Whether these prices are sustainable in the long term remains to be seen, but the Miami-Indiana game undoubtedly reshaped the financial landscape of college football.