New research reveals that a single goal could cost football fans up to £188 this summer. The study, commissioned by Post Office Travel Money, found that nearly four in 10 fans admit to spending more money when their team scores. A poll of 2,000 supporters showed that 37% part with their cash more easily after a goal, with celebratory drinks being the most popular purchase, averaging £17.70 per goal.
Additional Spending on Food and Merchandise
Fans are also likely to spend an extra £15.91 on food while watching a game if their team is winning, and £22.06 more on merchandise. Over one in ten admitted to buying tickets for future matches after seeing a goal. In total, the overall cost of a goal could reach as high as £188 per person.
Factors Influencing Spending
Factors that influence spending splurges include whether the goal put the team in front, the significance of the match, and who the opponent was. The research also highlighted that 65% of those who watch football abroad find it a more memorable experience. Half of those polled have traveled abroad primarily to watch a game, and 30% admitted they spend more money when watching in another country.
Reasons for Higher Spending Overseas
Top reasons fans spend more when watching overseas include being in holiday mode, treating it as a special occasion, and getting swept up in the atmosphere. However, 36% of fans have woken up the morning after a match to realize they spent more than planned. Before the final whistle, 34% have been known to buy season tickets or premium memberships, and even spontaneous weekends away.
Expert Advice
Laura Plunkett, head of travel money at Post Office, said: 'Fans have no idea what emotions they'll experience, so it's hard for them to pre-plan spending. For many fans, watching football abroad makes the game all the more special – it's become a key holiday experience.' She added: 'With fans admitting being abroad makes them more likely to spend, we encourage those heading overseas to plan how they'll manage their money before they travel, so they can focus on enjoying the matchday atmosphere and making the most of the trip. A travel money card offers a simple way to load currency in advance, track spending and pay securely while abroad – so fans can watch the football, not the exchange rate.'
Top 10 Purchases Made as a Result of a Goal
- A celebratory drink for yourself
- A round of drinks
- Food while out to watch the game
- A celebratory drink for someone else
- Bar snacks
- Team merchandise
- Tickets for a future match
- Drinks for strangers
- A spontaneous online purchase
- A night away for a future match
