Bottoms Up! The Booziest Fans in Football Revealed

Pints, passion, and pricey rounds - new data reveals who’s sinking the most beers before the whistle blows.

Whether it’s to settle those pre-match nerves or part of the post-match celebrations (or commiserations), alcohol and football often go hand-in-hand.

But which fans are really putting their money - and pints - where their mouth is?

According to new research conducted by Outplayed, prior to fixtures last season, West Ham United fans spent close to £200k on pints alone — and that’s just before kick-off.

To calculate the figures, the team at Outplayed analysed the capacity of each stadium, applied a factor of 44.1%, based on a 2021 study indicating that two-fifths of football supporters consume alcohol before matches, and multiplied that figure by the average cost of a pint at each venue.

The methodology assumes that each of these supporters purchased at least one pint of beer prior to a match.

Arsenal supporters follow closely behind, racking up around £169,897 in matchday alcohol sales at the Emirates Stadium, where an average pint costs £6.35.

Third place is Tottenham Hotspur fans, who spend nearly £143,783 at the bar per match—despite a slightly lower average pint price of £5.19.

Newcastle United and Manchester City fans also contribute heavily to the booze economy, spending £112,869 and £108,327, respectively.

Surprisingly, Manchester United landed mid-table, spending just under £100,000 despite having the highest stadium capacity of 74,879.

Bournemouth fans are the most modest spenders at the other end of the scale, contributing just £21,196 in matchday alcohol sales, followed by Burnley (£37,851) and Brentford (£39,912).

Fulham fans are also relatively reserved, spending an average of £75,639 despite higher-than-average pint prices of £5.80, suggesting fewer drinks per fan.

With the rising cost of supporting a football team, especially when factoring in expensive matchday pints, many fans are turning to side hustles to help fund their passion. From selling memorabilia to exploring flexible income streams, these extra earners are becoming just as much a part of modern football culture as the pre-match pint

A spokesperson from Outplayed said: "Football has always been about more than just the game on the pitch — it's an experience that brings fans together.

"Our research offers insight into how supporters engage with matchday traditions, reflecting the diverse ways fans enjoy the sport responsibly."

So there you have it — from Bournemouth to Newcastle and everywhere in between, British football fans certainly know how to make a matchday memorable.

To see the full line-up of football clubs and their matchday drinking stats, check out the detailed breakdown below.