A recent poll of 2,000 sporting fans has revealed some of the most unusual game-day rituals.
A staggering 56% admitted to having superstitions on match days, with 47% convinced that these habits can sway the outcome of the game.
The list of peculiar habits includes wearing lucky shirts or pants, sitting in the same on the sofa and even avoiding pavement cracks before heading to the game.
Other top rituals feature carrying a lucky coin, repeating a chant or phrase three times before the game starts and avoiding people they watched a game with in which their team lost.
Interestingly, the survey discovered that 36% of sport fans identify themselves as superstitious, with a significant 56% believing in the the concept of luck. However, 18% see most game-day rituals as being more about tradition than having any real impact on the game’s outcome.
The survey, commissioned by NERDS candy in celebration of their partnership with the National Football League (NFL) in the UK and Ireland for the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 seasons, highlights the significant role food plays in these sporting traditions.
Ferrara Candy UK is offering fans the chance to win NFL London games tickets if they spot the NERD Gummy Monster in London next week.
Kevin Massie, UK country manager at Ferrara Candy UK, commented on the findings: “Food plays a big role in sporting moments.”
He added, “Whether it’s stocking up on your favourite candy for match time snacks or a lucky pre-match meal, we know everyone has their own unique superstitions to help with match day jitters.”
