Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Why football tourism is so important in the UK.
Football is one of the biggest global sports with major tournaments like the latest World Cup engaging around five billion people according to the figures released by FIFA. This popularity means people travel far and wide to watch their favourite teams and the UK is fortunate enough to have some of the biggest clubs in world football.
Football is more than just a sport in the United Kingdom; it is a cultural phenomenon that has captured the hearts of millions around the world.
Teams like Liverpool, Manchester United, Celtic and Chelsea have admirers across the globe and many travel to the UK to watch them take on their rivals as they look to climb the league table or progress to the next stages of the national and international cup competitions.
This inbound tourism combined with UK-based football fans is very important to this country and our guide below is going to explain why and which stadiums you must visit as a football fan. Read on to find out more.
Why football tourism is so important in the UK
1. So, why is football so important for the UK?
The biggest reason for football’s importance to the UK is that it draws in thousands of fans every time they play. These fans, in turn, spend money in the nearby restaurants, pubs and retail stores near the stadiums, which is a huge boost for the economy.
Data collected in 2019 revealed that a whopping £1.4 billion was spent by overseas football tourists visiting the country to watch their favourite teams.
2. Nationwide success
The other reason for football helping the UK is that it encourages tourists to visit various places around the UK instead of just London. Cities like Birmingham, Leeds, Newcastle, and Liverpool have iconic teams playing within them and an influx of tourists means each of the cities will benefit, helping to share the wealth of success across the nation.
Visitors who travel to attend matches or explore football-related attractions contribute to local economies, spending on accommodation, transportation, dining, and merchandise. Additionally, football tourism creates employment opportunities in various sectors, including hospitality, retail, and entertainment, thus boosting the overall economy.
3. What are the most popular stadiums to visit?
Anfield
One of the most iconic stadiums in the country, Anfield has an atmosphere like no other and there’s no better way to experience a match than by buying a shirt from the store with a big player’s name on the back like Szoboszlai. The reds tend to come out on top too, so you can be sure of an electric crowd while you’re there.
Wembley
Cheer on the national team at their home when you visit Wembley. This is the biggest stadium in the country, housing 90,000 passionate fans whenever England’s heroes take centre stage, which means you’re likely to hear a mighty raw as the goals fly in.
Old Trafford
This is another of the biggest stadiums in the country and is known as the Theatre of Dreams. While Man United continue to struggle for the form they had under Sir Alex Ferguson, most of the games played here are still a joy to watch, making it an ideal place to visit whether you’re a neutral or a die-hard United fan.
Final words on Why football tourism is so important in the UK
Football tourism plays a significant role in the UK, bringing immense benefits to both football fans and the country as a whole. It not only supports local economies and job creation but also promotes social and cultural exchange while contributing to the development of infrastructure. Furthermore, it serves as a gateway for tourists to explore the UK beyond football, showcasing the country’s rich heritage and attractions. With its deep-rooted football culture, the UK continues to be a top destination for football enthusiasts worldwide.
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