By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
According to ‘YouGov’ surveys, carried out in October 2021 and August 2022, 41.5% of the respondents, the equivalent of more than 22 million adults in the United Kingdom, have stated that they are fans and followers of women’s sport
The key findings of these surveys are as follows:
- Women’s football had 8.7 million more fans in 2022 than in 2021;
- The number of people identifying themselves as big fans of women’s football tripled between the studies;
- Female fans of women’s football increased by 19 % between 2021 and 2022;
- Winter sports, netball, combat sports and gymnastics also showed a notable increase in fans.
Furthermore, 14 million people stated that they were open to becoming fans of women’s sport.
Women’s athletics, cricket, cycling, rugby and tennis have also shown increases in popularity.
Many football fans have stated that they would rather watch the women’s than the men’s game!
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘