Football goal celebrations could cost fans up to £188 this summer, study finds

A solitary moment of brilliance on the field could result in football supporters spending as much as £188 this summer, research has revealed. Almost four in 10 fans acknowledge they're more inclined to open their wallets when their team finds the net. A survey of 2,000 football fans discovered 37% spend more liberally following a goal - with celebratory beverages the primary catalyst, amounting to an average £17.70 per goal. Supporters also splash out an additional £15.91 on food while watching a fixture if their team appears set for victory, while another £22.06 is spent on merchandise. More than one in 10 indicated a goal has even convinced them to purchase tickets for an upcoming fixture. In total, this could amount to as much as £188 per individual, according to the findings. The factors driving these spending sprees include whether the goal put the team ahead, the importance of the fixture, and the identity of the opposition. The research was commissioned by Post Office Travel Money ahead of what promises to be a bumper summer of football for fans cheering on their sides. Laura Plunkett, head of travel money at Post Office, said: "Fans have no idea what emotions they'll experience, so it's hard for them to pre-plan spending. For many fans, watching football abroad makes the game all the more special – it's become a key holiday experience. "With the upcoming summer of football, we're anticipating a huge year for sport-related travel, as fans flock to watch make or break games, savouring each win and experiencing every heartbreak." The study revealed 65% of fans who have watched football overseas describe it as a more unforgettable experience. Half of respondents have travelled abroad primarily to attend a match, and 30% acknowledged they spend more when watching in a different country, reports the Daily Star . Top reasons for spending more abroad include being in holiday mode, treating it as a special occasion, and getting swept up in the atmosphere. But 36% have woken up the next morning realising they spent more than planned. Before the final whistle, 34% have even bought season tickets, premium memberships - or booked spontaneous weekends away. For 11%, it's an excuse to have a blowout with football-loving family and friends, while 14% said they "deserve a treat" after sticking by their club through tough times. Laura Plunkett added: "With fans admitting being abroad makes them more likely to spend, we encourage those heading overseas to plan how they'll manage their money before they travel, so they can focus on enjoying the matchday atmosphere and making the most of the trip. "A travel money card offers a simple way to load currency in advance, track spending and pay securely while abroad – so fans can watch the football, not the exchange rate." A celebratory drink for yourself A round of drinks Food while out to watch the game A celebratory drink for someone else Bar snacks Team merchandise Tickets for a future match Drinks for strangers A spontaneous online purchase A night away for a future match