Football is the most popular sport in the world. Much of this growth has to do with its huge fanbase. People love watching football and watching as teams go head-to-head for the ultimate prize. And more recently, this popularity growth has also been due to the amazing bookie odds. With sports betting apps like the Bet365 app enabling fans to have a stake in games, the interest in football has multiplied. It also helps that such apps allow punters to enjoy live streaming such that they can catch the matches live. Sports betting has also created a platform for punters to share their opinions about possible outcomes.
One of the biggest football communities is in Italy. Italian fans don’t play when it comes to supporting their teams. So big is their outward show of affection that their profiles have been studied in numerous papers. Let’s uncover the unique physical and psychological attributes of Italian football fans:
The Italian Football Fan
Football fans vary in their intensity. And the world can agree that Italian football fans rank as some of the most passionate fans. What’s different about them?
a.   They Are Vocal
Italian football fans love their teams and often go all out to support them. As a result, Serie A is highly competitive, and team managers often have to work around the clock to ensure their teams compete at the highest levels. When teams fail to meet the required standards, the fans are always quick to display their dissatisfaction. They often vocalize their demands in ways that have a lot of bearing on team owners, as follows:
- Whistling on their teams: While other fans prefer staying quiet when their teams do not perform well, Italian fans do not sit on the sidelines and wait. They immediately show their frustration.
- Vocalizing their dissatisfaction in the media: Fans are open to venting about team performances on social media and other outlets. Thus, a team that has performed below par soon gets word about fan reactions.
It’s not uncommon for team owners to fire managers with losing streaks to appease the fans.
b.  They Are Passionate
Italian fans are not shy about displaying their love for their teams. In many ways, this support brings them together. Many of them show up to stadiums to watch their favorite teams playing. And often, they wear the team colors. Doing so communicates support to their teams. It also intimidates the opponents by showing them that their teams have numbers. Players often carry merchandise, have their faces painted, and sing songs to encourage their teams. It is quite a colorful occasion.
c.   They Are Energetic
Showing up to matches, singing songs, cheering teams, and intimidating opponents takes a lot of work. But Italian fans are not fazed by this. Come rain or shine, they show up and show out, much to the benefit of their teams, which can count on their support.
d.  They Are Knowledgeable
Many Italian fans understand the ins and outs of football. They do deep dives into tactics, understand managers’ track records, follow the rankings, and can break down predictions without much hassle. It makes it easier for them to make money through:
- Placing wagers on games with good odds,
- Writing about football games,
- Making vlogs about sports betting or football games, etc.
Their extensive knowledge beats what regular fans would know about most events.
e.   They Are Loyal
Football fans in Italy often stick to the same team even when things take a turn for the worse. Even in the hard times, they do not change sides. While they might sometimes whistle their teams, their allegiance does not change.
Most fans enjoy being part of the community as it gives them a sense of belonging and fuels their passion. For them, it is not just about cheering on a team – it is a lifestyle.
