Unveiling the Most Superstitious Fan Bases in Major League Sports
Sports fans have long been known for their passionate loyalty—and for the quirky rituals they perform in hopes of influencing their team’s fate. Whether it’s donning a “lucky” jersey or following meticulous game-day routines, the connection between fandom and superstition is undeniable. To understand which fan communities are most dedicated to their pre-game traditions, a recent survey polled over 3,000 fans from the largest American and Canadian professional sports leagues: MLB, MLS, NBA, NFL, and NHL. Here’s what the data reveals about superstitious fervor in pro sports.
Which Sports Fans Are Most Superstitious? Survey Highlights
A nationwide survey produced several surprising insights into the rituals and beliefs held by dedicated supporters. Some key points include:
– Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Lakers fans stand out as the most superstitious, sharing the top spot across all leagues.
– NFL fans in general display the highest levels of superstition among major league devotees.
– Within Major League Baseball, New York Yankees supporters claim the title of the most ritualistic.
– Wearing team apparel or lucky colors is the leading superstition, practiced by nearly 45% of fans surveyed.
Ranking the Top 10 Most Superstitious Fan Bases in Professional Sports
Data visualization: The most superstitious fan communities by league
The fanaticism that propels fans to extraordinary pre-game feats spans every major sport, from football to soccer. But which supporter bases go above and beyond when it comes to rituals for good luck?
At the top of the list are Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Lakers followers, both revered for their elaborate routines and unwavering faith in the power of superstition. These habits not only influence fans, but are echoed by star athletes such as Dak Prescott and LeBron James, who engage in their own personal rituals like signature gestures or wearing specific game attire.
Green Bay Packers aficionados proudly claim the runner-up position. Many fans maintain unique traditions—some as steadfast as wearing the same (often unwashed) clothing for every game. An extraordinary example is Meg Flemming, who refuses to remove her Packers anklet, a pledge unchanged since childhood, until her team secures another Super Bowl victory.
On the eastern front, Pittsburgh Steelers supporters secure the third spot with a blend of classic and unconventional pre-game behaviors. In addition to donning the team’s signature black and gold, these fans participate in playful betting rituals, bring black cats to games to ward off misfortune, and some even toss salt over their shoulders or carry steel objects for luck.
New York Yankees loyalists, ranking fourth, are the leading superstitious group in baseball. Their dedication mirrors that of past Yankees players, with rituals ranging from touching historic statues before games to infamously breaking a slump with superstitious underwear. The Chicago Bears fan base rounds out the top five, frequently relying on lucky garments and recurring songs to set the tone for victory.
When analyzing the full list, NFL teams overwhelmingly dominate the rankings, underlining football as the sport with the most devotedly superstitious following. The NBA claims the second position, trailed by MLB, NHL, and finally, MLS in overall ritualistic engagement.
Popular Pre-Game Superstitions Among Sports Fans
Common superstitions practiced by fans, visualized
To avoid tempting fate, many fans implement personal rituals before every major match. Based on survey responses, these are the most prevalent superstitions:
– **Wearing a specific color or team gear:** Roughly 44.4% choose team colors or their designated “lucky” hues for game day.
– **Donning a cherished garment:** Approximately 16.2% single out a special piece of clothing (sometimes even underwear) they believe brings victory.
– **Watching from a lucky spot:** Some 8.6% feel compelled to enjoy the game at a particular location, such as a favorite bar or room in their home.
– **Following a lucky pre-game meal:** About 6.4% replicate meals that previously preceded a win.
– **Avoiding bets on their team:** 6% abstain from wagering on their own side to avoid jinxes.
– **Excluding particular friends or family:** 4.4% avoid watching games with certain people deemed “bad luck.”
These deeply personal traditions are seen as essential, highlighting the lengths to which sports enthusiasts will go in pursuit of victory—and peace of mind.
How the Survey Was Conducted
The research for these findings took place in July 2023, involving more than 3,000 fans from both the United States and Canada. Participants were asked detailed questions about their pre-game behaviors and which teams or leagues they supported. The average participant was 37.9 years old, with a diverse sample: 58.6% male, 39.4% female, 1.5% non-binary, 0.4% transgender, and 0.1% other.
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