"The first results show that there is a great demand for tickets," said ticket manager Mary Manopoulou. A Greek government representative, Tilemahos Chitris, noted that it was too early to make official assessments, but confirmed that there was significant demand. About 2.3 million tickets have been reserved for the so-called "Olympic family," which includes sponsors and officials of the International Olympic Committee. The remaining 3 million tickets can be purchased by sports fans until June 12.
Tickets for sporting events cost on average from 10 to 30 euros. The exception is the most significant events, which the public will be able to see by paying 300 euros. This applies to the official opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, tickets for which can be purchased at prices ranging from 100 to 950 euros. Residents of EU member states can purchase tickets through the official website of the Athens Olympic Games (www.athens2004.com/tickets). The same website contains all the necessary information in English, French and Greek, and payment requires a credit card. Citizens of other countries can purchase tickets at their national Olympic committees or from official agents of the games.