Examining soccer fan performances through performative sport fandom theory: how fans of the spurs perform their fandom

Abstract

This study examined fan performances of the Tottenham Hotspur football club located in London, England. Through Performative Sport Fandom theory, this study uncovers how fans of the Spurs perform their fandom in unique ways. Fans who are of various ages, gender, socioeconomic-status, etc., perform their fandom for the Spurs in unique ways. Those fans who go to the pub regularly perform their fandom differently than those who attend live matches. Performative Sport Fandom theory was used to better understand individual differences that exist amongst Spurs fans, opposed to relying on social identity theory, which tends to overstate the need for group affiliation amongst sport fans as it relates to their identity. The four themes that emerged through in-depth interviews included: loyalty, tradition, rituals, and pub culture.