Nostalgia and Pub Conversations Play a Big Role in Football Fans' Knowledge

A recent poll conducted by Budweiser Brewing Group revealed that a quarter of football fans in the UK consider themselves to have an "encyclopaedic" knowledge of the game. These fans are able to reel off facts about their club's history, stadiums around the world, and even former pundits of football shows.

Key Findings of the Poll

The poll, which surveyed 2,000 fans, found that 26% of them could list the players who wore the armband for their team, while 24% could discuss random managers from the past. Nostalgia also played a significant role in the knowledge of football fans, with 23% of them being knowledgeable about players from the '90s and 16% loving to reminisce about retro kits from their childhood.

Football Conversations as Icebreakers

According to the research, 54% of football fans believe that football conversations are the best way to break the ice. Additionally, 52% of fans have found themselves engaging in conversations about the sport with strangers at pubs.

Learning Sources for Football Knowledge

The survey also explored how football fans acquire their knowledge. It found that 65% of fans learned about football by watching matches over the years, while 41% learned from talking with other fans and 37% attribute their knowledge to reading articles online. Interestingly, 24% of fans believe that spending time in the pub watching games with fellow supporters has contributed to their football know-how.

The Pub Experience and Watching Football

When it comes to catching a game at the local pub, 53% of fans enjoy the lively atmosphere it generates, and 42% appreciate the big screen experience. Nearly one in three pubgoers (31%) also enjoy watching the action unfold with their favorite pint and celebrating with other fans. For 38% of fans, the pub is the go-to place to watch the really big games, with 56% agreeing that it is the next best place to watch football after being in the stadium itself.

On average, viewers arrive at the pub nearly 25 minutes before kick-off, with 58% of respondents wanting to get there early to grab a drink before the game starts.

A Night to Remember for Newcastle Fans

Budweiser Brewing Group, in partnership with TNT Sport, recently organized a pub takeover in Newcastle. The event was hosted by former football stars Nolberto Solano and Andrew Cole, along with presenter Will Brazier. The takeover was held ahead of Newcastle's Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday, November 28th. Fans were invited to watch the game at The Grove and participate in a Q&A with the former St James' Park favorites.

Jean David Thumelaire from Budweiser Brewing Group expressed excitement about the partnership with TNT Sport and the opportunity to create memorable experiences for customers at pubs. Thumelaire added, "We can't wait to open the doors for a night to remember – no matter the outcome."