As international football tournaments continue to capture the attention of millions across the UK, new research has revealed that many supporters aren’t as loyal as they appear. According to a new study from Heathrow Express, more than half of British football fans secretly support a second national team alongside their home nation.
The findings highlight how international tournaments are creating a new generation of global football fans, with many supporters forming connections with countries based on their playing style, star players, and memorable tournament moments.
More Than Half of Fans Have a “Second Team”
The research found that 53% of football fans support another country during major international tournaments in addition to their own national side.
For many, these additional loyalties remain hidden. More than a third (37%) admitted they have supported another nation without telling friends, family, or colleagues, while 32% confessed to publicly backing one team while privately hoping another side would win.
The survey also revealed that rivalries play a major role in international football fandom. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of supporters said they cheer for a country simply because it is facing a rival nation.
Once their own team has been eliminated, fans are quick to adopt new allegiances, with 54% admitting they switch support during a tournament.
Spain and Brazil Lead Britain’s Favourite Second Teams
When asked which countries they secretly support, Spain emerged as the UK’s favourite second team, followed closely by Brazil and Scotland.
Other popular choices included Portugal, France, and Italy.
Several factors influence these loyalties:
- 29% are attracted by a team’s style of play
- 26% support teams because of their star players
- 22% enjoy backing underdogs
- 17% choose teams simply for entertainment
While some supporters feel conflicted about backing another nation, most are comfortable with their divided loyalties. More than a quarter (28%) said they are unconcerned about supporting multiple countries, while 17% believe it actually enhances their enjoyment of international tournaments.
However, around 10% admitted they feel somewhat “sneaky” when secretly supporting another team.
International Football Inspires Travel Plans
The study also found a strong link between football and travel, with 30% of supporters saying international tournaments have inspired them to visit another country.
Spain topped the list of destinations fans most want to visit after watching international football, followed by Brazil, France, Italy, and Portugal.
Among supporters with a second team:
- 45% would consider travelling abroad if their adopted nation reached a tournament final
- 12% have already travelled overseas specifically to watch a football match
Aoife Considine, Business Lead at Heathrow Express, said:
“One match, one player or one unforgettable atmosphere can suddenly put a country on someone’s travel list.
With 86% of football fans saying it’s important to get to the airport quickly and easily when travelling overseas for a match, we know the journey before the flight matters just as much as the flight itself.”
Football Fans Will Watch Anywhere
The research highlights just how deeply international football becomes embedded in everyday life during tournament season.
An impressive 82% of supporters admitted to watching matches in unusual locations, including:
- At work (30%)
- On public transport (18%)
- During parties and social events (16%)
- At the airport before a flight (10%)
The survey also found that football fans are a superstitious bunch, with 56% following at least one matchday ritual. Common habits include wearing lucky shirts, sitting in the same place for every game, and refusing to move when their team is performing well.
Football Tourism Continues to Grow
With major international tournaments increasingly inspiring travel, football tourism is becoming a significant trend among supporters looking to experience the atmosphere firsthand.
Whether it’s following England abroad, supporting a secret second team, or planning a future trip inspired by a memorable tournament performance, football’s ability to connect sport and travel appears stronger than ever.
Fans interested in planning a football-inspired getaway can find more information about Heathrow Express services and advance fares on the official Heathrow Express website.
