‘We shouldn’t have to ask’: exploring the realities of minority ethnic women football spectators

Abstract

ABSTRACT Research Question: Women’s football is experiencing significant growth, but is it fully inclusive? Little research explores the experiences of minority ethnic women spectators. For women’s football to capitalise on its success and be welcoming for all, it is critical to explore the barriers facing women intersectionally. This paper seeks answers to the following questions: What influenced minority ethnic women’s decisions to watch the UWE, and what challenges exist to their spectatorship? Research Methods An online survey and three focus groups explored United Kingdom respondents’ thoughts around spectatorship at the 2022 UEFA Women’s Euros. Topics included the marketing before the event, their experiences, and future intentions. Results and Findings: Analysis of the results resulted in the following themes: the importance of supporting the England women’s team vs. a lack of diversity, lack of cultural awareness, performativity and the FA, and women’s football being different to men’s football. Minority ethnic women face numerous challenges, including perceptions of tokenism, a lack of representation on and off the pitch, and religious observances, including a lack of prayer rooms and no-alcohol zones. Implications Governing bodies must take action to diversify the sport at all levels, especially grassroots, including consulting and listening to the voices of minority ethnic women. The creation of role models will increase feelings of connectedness. While this work has focused on women’s football, leaders in the men’s game and other governing bodies could embrace our suggestions to encourage more minority ethnic spectators.