Soccer Fan Culture Around the World: A Full Guide
Nowadays football is no longer just a sport; it has become a passion, a way of life, and even almost a religion in many countries around the world. In countries where football is the number one sport, hardcore fans are known as “ultras” and these fans often lead their lives around watching soccer and supporting their favorite players regularly.
Whether watching a game with friends at home on television or being part of the electrifying atmosphere in stadiums, soccer fans are called “the 12th player” in soccer and they play a vital role in motivating teams, creating unforgettable moments, and shaping the culture of the game both on and off the pitch.
In this blog post, I will explain everything you need to know about soccer fans.
The Passionate World of Soccer Fans: The Twelfth Player
Soccer fans are a different breed and it is safe to say that the passion found in elite football is not found in many other sports. This connection between soccer fans and their favorite team goes far beyond the game itself, influencing their daily lives, community, and identity.
The energy that fans bring to each game is nothing short of electric. In fact, the support and atmosphere they create has earned them the title of the “12th player,” highlighting how their passion and motivation can impact the outcome of a match.
The chants, songs, and traditions of soccer fans have been passed down for generations, making them as integral to the sport as the players themselves. Whether you’re a local soccer fan cheering on a neighborhood club or a diehard supporter traveling across the world to follow your favorite team, being part of a soccer community is about more than just the beautiful game—it’s about belonging to something bigger.
The Intensity of Soccer Rivalries
When talking about soccer fans, it’s also right to talk about soccer rivalries because these intense matchups often define the passion, loyalty, and emotional highs and lows that fans experience. Rivalries bring out the deepest sense of pride and identity and turn ordinary games into historic battles that are remembered for generations.
For dedicated soccer fans, these intense rivalries offer an emotional rollercoaster, filled with anticipation, joy, heartbreak, and unforgettable memories. Whether it’s a local derby or a clash between international giants, these matches go beyond the field—they represent history, pride, and a fight for bragging rights that fuels the spirit of the beautiful game.
Some of the biggest rivalries of the modern game to look into include:
- Real Madrid vs Barcelona
- Bayern Munich vs Borussia Dortmund
- Manchester United vs Manchester City
- Boca Juniors vs River Plate
- Mexico vs USA
Fan Match-day Rituals Around the World
Match-days are the days where fans are able to showoff the most pride and passion for their teams. Here is how different countries and nations around the world prepare for match day:
– Germany:
Known for its Bundesliga, Germany has some of the most committed soccer fans in the world. For example, in stadiums like Borussia Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park, fans gather in the famous “Yellow Wall” to lead synchronized chants, wave flags, and create an intense atmosphere. Pre-game traditions often include socializing over beers and food, all while wearing team jerseys.
– Spain:
Spain’s La Liga, home to iconic clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona, is known for intense fan rivalries, especially during El Clásico. Spanish soccer fans gather hours before the game to sing, chant, and show support for their favorite players. The streets get full of team scarves, flags, and shirts, making matchday an intense experience for locals and visitors.
– England:
As the birthplace of modern soccer, England’s fans are some of the most passionate in the world. The tradition of watching soccer on Saturdays is embedded in the culture. English soccer fans often gather in pubs to sing team anthems before heading to the stadium or watching the game from the comfort of their local bar. Favorite matchday foods include pies and chips, often enjoyed alongside a pint of beer.
– Argentina:
– In Argentina, matchday is an electrifying experience, especially during the Boca Juniors vs. River Plate rivalry, known as the Superclásico. Fans spend days preparing, with rituals that include waving massive flags, setting off flares, and chanting team songs handed down through generations. The atmosphere is intense, with local businesses even shutting down during this major event.
– Africa:
– Soccer is a unifying force in many African countries. In places like Ghana and Nigeria, fans gather in streets for matchday parades with drumming, trumpeting, and dancing. Their pre-match rituals often feel like a carnival, with fans dressed in team colors and creating a lively and celebratory atmosphere before the game begins.
– Japan:
– A different type of fan on this list are the fans from Japan. Japanese fans are some of the most organized and respectful fans that are known for always cleaning up after themselves and leaving stadiums clean.
Summary
Soccer fan are one of the most important parts of the beautiful game and they are often referred to as the “12th player” due to their energy, loyalty, and passion that they bring both at home and in stadiums. From global rivalries to local match-day traditions, this blog explores the deep cultural impact soccer fans have on the sport and how their rituals shape the identity of modern football.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are soccer fans called?
Soccer fans are often referred to as supporters or followers. In some regions, they may also be known as ultras or hooligans, particularly if associated with intense fanaticism or disruptive behavior.
What does it mean to be a soccer fan?
Being a soccer fan means having an emotional connection with a team and passionately following their games. It involves supporting the team through highs and lows, attending matches when possible, and engaging in traditions like chants and songs.
How many soccer fans are in the world?
The FIFA Big Count survey estimates approximately 4 billion football (soccer) fans worldwide. This makes it the most popular sport globally.
How can you watch soccer as a fan?
There are many ways to watch soccer as a fan such as by going to a live game or using a streaming service. For streaming sports, it is reasonable to use a VPN, among them VeePN is popular with its streaming servers. It is an investment in security and freedom on the Internet.
