The pub landscape in the UK has been facing challenging times, with more than 75 pubs closing each month in 2023. However, the Six Nations rugby tournament has provided a much-needed boost for the industry, with rugby fans reinvigorating the atmosphere in pubs across the nation.
Last year’s tournament saw an estimated three million pints poured over nine days in pubs across Britain, highlighting the significant impact of sports events on pub culture. To kick off this year’s Six Nations, former England international Ugo Monye and TV personality Jake Quickenden embarked on a challenge to visit all six competing nations in less than six days.
Surprisingly, rugby fans have been hailed as the ‘friendliest supporters’, surpassing fans of traditionally genteel sports like tennis and even football. TV star Jake Quickenden shared his experience of being embraced by the rugby community during the challenge, expressing his initial intimidation at being surrounded by hardcore fans. However, he quickly realized the warmth and inclusiveness of rugby fans, particularly in the UK.
These sentiments were further supported by new research conducted by Greene King, which identified UK rugby fans as the friendliest group of supporters, with 25% of respondents affirming this view. In comparison, only 21% of respondents identified tennis fans and football fans as the friendliest.
The research, which surveyed 1500 adults in the UK, France, and Italy, revealed that Home Nations supporters are expected to flock to pubs and spend an average of £20 per person, demonstrating their enthusiastic support for the tournament. On the other hand, fans in Italy and France are projected to spend an average of £12.90 per person (€15).
Reflecting on the unique camaraderie of rugby fans, former England international Ugo Monye emphasized the lively atmosphere and friendly rivalry that set rugby apart from other sports. These sentiments were also echoed by Michelle West of Greene King, who highlighted the role of sports in shaping the cultural fabric of UK pubs.
The Six Nations tournament is not only a thrilling showcase of athletic prowess but also a unifying force that brings people together in the spirit of good-natured competition. As fans gather in pubs to cheer for their respective teams, the tournament continues to play a significant role in preserving and revitalizing the vibrant pub culture in the UK.