A gravity model to explain the flows away of football fans: A panel data analysis

Abstract

This study breaks new ground by examining determinants of away fan travel in a professional football league. Using data from two consecutive seasons of the Spanish league, a gravity model is estimated based on a three-dimensional panel to discuss the effects of a number of factors that influence the flows of away fans. Results evidence the importance of factors such as distance between locations, the day or time the match is played, and uncertainty concerning the visiting team’s current form. Joint interpretation of all these factors by the clubs and by those organising the competition may help to reshape their management strategies, which would result in increased flows of away supporters and an increase in sports clubs’ revenues from this concept.