Cost of watching the World Cup at home escalates for UK fans
British football fans are expected to incur substantial expenses while following the World Cup from home this summer, with new research indicating average costs could reach thousands. The findings, published by Santander, reveal that fans are projected to spend around £630 on dining and drinking during the tournament’s 104 matches, reports BritPanorama.
In addition to eating out, fans will likely spend over £200 on takeaways and another £200 on taxi fares to ensure safe travels home. Public transport costs are anticipated to add more than £175 to the total, while kit and decorations for the tournament could set supporters back an additional £100.
Remarkably, opting to watch the tournament from home might even cost more than traveling to the United States to watch live matches. England’s group stage matches are conveniently scheduled in Dallas, Boston, and New Jersey, with kick-off times falling between 9 PM and 10 PM, creating favorable viewing conditions for supporters.
In contrast, Scotland fans face more challenging circumstances. Their opening match against Haiti is set for an early 2 AM BST kick-off, and while their subsequent games against Morocco and Brazil start at 11 PM, the schedule entails considerable late-night viewing. With matches scheduled from 8 PM through to 4 AM daily, fans have ample opportunity to gather in local pubs.
The tournament kicks off Thursday evening, beginning with a match between Mexico and South Africa. Pubs across Britain anticipate a surge in patronage as they seek a reprieve from tax increases enacted in last autumn’s Budget. Gerry Davies of Santander UK noted that football has a distinct ability to unite fans, asserting, “Whether fans are watching from the stands or hosting friends at home, many will be spending more to make the experience one to remember.”
Indeed, for those following every group match, costs could exceed £230 before the knockout rounds even commence, suggesting that as England and Scotland progress, the costs will continue to rise.
This month’s World Cup serves as a vibrant reminder of football’s capacity to captivate and connect, even amidst the financial strains ordinary fans might face in the pursuit of enjoyment.
