The Lasting Impact of New Stadiums?

by Jon Scaccia March 12, 2024

When it comes to the development of soccer, one aspect that has always intrigued fans and analysts alike is the effect of new stadiums on attendance.

Traditional wisdom, based on US-based studies, held that the surge in attendance following the introduction of a new stadium was merely a “novelty” or “honeymoon” effect – short-lived and fleeting. However, a recent study titled No novelty effect but a honeymoon that lasts on the attendance effects of new football stadiums challenges this notion with a fresh perspective from European soccer leagues.

This paper focuses on the top tier of Dutch professional football. Over three decades of data reveal a startling conclusion: the increase in attendance due to new stadiums isn’t just a brief surge but a long-lasting effect. This insight holds significant implications for soccer club management and development strategies.

The European Difference

The study’s divergence from previous US-based research is striking. While US studies mainly found a temporary boost in attendance, the European data tells a different story. In the Netherlands, new stadiums have consistently drawn crowds over the years. This persistent positive attendance effect suggests that new stadiums in Europe are more than just a temporary attraction; they become integral parts of the community and the fan experience.

Long-Term Commitment Over Short-Term Curiosity

A crucial factor in this sustained interest is the nature of soccer fandom in Europe. The study suggests that new European soccer stadiums don’t just pique temporary curiosity but foster a long-term commitment among fans. The enhanced stadium experience – better views, more comfort, and improved facilities – appears to convert the once-casual viewers into loyal, regular attendees. This shift in fan behavior is a critical insight for soccer clubs looking at long-term audience engagement strategies.

Implications for Soccer Development

For soccer clubs, especially in the US, rethinking stadium investments is vital. The findings indicate that a well-planned, fan-focused new stadium can be a long-term asset, boosting attendance and, by extension, revenue. This information is crucial for clubs considering new stadium projects or renovations. Investing in fan experience and comfort could be the key to sustained growth in attendance and fan loyalty.

Yet.

We have to be mindful of the muddy and sleight-of-hand economics that come with new stadiums and the bill that inevitably gets shifted to the taxpayer in that region. Plenty of other posts will dive more into that in the future.

A New Blueprint for Stadium Investment

The study serves as a blueprint for clubs worldwide, emphasizing the importance of understanding fan behavior and needs. The long-term success of a stadium project relies not just on its novelty but on its ability to enhance the overall match-day experience consistently. This approach could redefine how clubs across the globe approach their stadium strategies, focusing more on the fan experience rather than just the novelty factor.

Encouraging Further Research

This study opens the door for further research in different contexts, especially in American soccer, where the dynamics of fan engagement might differ. Understanding these nuances will be crucial for clubs and leagues as they navigate the complex world of sports development and fan engagement.

Be Part of Soccer’s Scientific Revolution: “Discover the unseen facets of soccer with ‘This Week in Soccer’. 

Our newsletter brings you closer to the game’s strategic and scientific dimensions, with content tailored for coaches, educators, and fans alike. Utilizing advanced AI tools, we make complex soccer science accessible and engaging. Don’t just watch soccer, understand it. Subscribe to our newsletter now!”