UEFA EURO 2024: Fan priorities and potential of the major event

Germany is on the brink of a summer soccer fairytale that is likely to be a highlight both in sporting and economic terms. A recent survey from the sports business database ONE8Y DB shows that "joie de vivre" is the most important aspect of the EURO from the fans' point of view - only just ahead of the equally important topic of "security". These two topics even surpass the "top sporting performances", which traditionally take center stage.

Hendrik Fischer, CEO of the sports marketing agency ONE8Y, comments positively on these developments: "It is interesting to note that fans' priorities have shifted in recent months. Enjoyment of life and safety are the most important things to fans - even if sport has naturally become more important in view of the upcoming tournament. This development should be viewed positively, as it shows that fans are not only focused on the sporting highlights, but also value a positive overall experience and safety.

The survey, in which over 6,500 people interested in soccer took part from December 2023 to May 2024, revealed that 61% of participants named "joie de vivre" as the most important aspect of the UEFA EURO. The topic of security followed closely behind. While the importance of enjoyment of life has increased significantly over time, security has remained at a consistently high level. This underlines the importance that fans attach to safety at matches. Sustainability, although important, ranked significantly lower at 26%.

Respondents also expressed their growing anticipation of the tournament, which has steadily increased since March 2023. From an initial 90%, enthusiasm rose to 95% shortly before the start of the tournament. These figures show that the population is looking forward to the event positively despite the associated challenges.

UEFA EURO 2024 also appears to have significant economic potential. According to the ongoing survey by ONE8Y, 63% of soccer fans plan to spend more than EUR 100 extra. The largest share of this expenditure will be spent on catering (19%), followed by public viewings (17%) and parties (13%). This additional spending could become a small economic stimulus program for the German economy. The UEFA EURO 2024 therefore not only shows the great enthusiasm of the fans, but also the economic potential and challenges that such major events bring with them.

Hans-Willy Brockes, organizer of the new congress SPORT MARKE MEDIEN, emphasizes the need for political support for major events: