World Cup FOMO to spark ticket and spending rush

New research from Nationwide reveals two thirds (67%) of the UK plans to watch the World Cup – equivalent to over 46 million people.

One in four (25%) say they will look for last‑minute tickets if their team performs well, rising sharply to 43 per cent should they reach the semi‑finals or beyond.

But amid the clamour for tickets, Nationwide has urged people to be on their guard, with customer data showing ticket scam victims lost over £300 on average over the past year.

The global tournament is expected to see an increase in consumer spending, with 27 per cent anticipating higher spend over the period. A quarter (25%) expect to spend an additional £50-£100 across June and July.

Nationwide’s poll of 2,000 respondents shows most fans are set to watch from home, likely in part due to the time differences but also in response to the cost-of-living challenges facing households. The tournament looks to be a social occasion with 40 per cent of Brits planning to watch with family at home, double that of those who plan to watch it alone indoors (20%), while 15 per cent will watch with friends at home and 11 per cent are set on heading to a pub or bar, despite time differences.

Nearly two in ten (18%) World Cup-watching Brits are planning to go to the supermarket for snacks and treats while 16 per cent will opt to splurge on a takeaway. Based on Nationwide customer spending data from the 2024 Euros, people spent an average of £23 on takeaways per transaction – however, spend is predicted to be higher during this year’s tournament.

A fifth (20%) of those who said they would spend on World Cup merchandise and memorabilia said they would buy a shirt or kit, while 14 per cent will buy flags and another 14 per cent will purchase World Cup related clothing. Seven per cent plan to buy mugs or glasses.

Mark Nalder, Payments Director at Nationwide said: “Our research shows what a social nation we are – it’s great to see events like the World Cup bringing people together. Whether it’s picking up treats from the supermarket, ordering a takeaway, or buying a team shirt, many of us are planning to spend this summer. Our app is there to help people manage their money with features like Impulse Saver and budgeting tools.

“Just a word of caution as World Cup FOMO starts to kick in. Our own data shows victims lost on average £337 on ticket scams over the past year highlighting the need for a calm, clear head when making any purchases.”