While the UK has significantly reduced national smoking rates over the last ten years and is implementing new laws to create a smoke-free generation, one part of the UK community seems to find it stubbornly hard to cut back on their smoking.
New research reveals that one particular group is still experiencing significantly higher levels of daily smoking compared to the UK average of 9.1%. The average daily smoking rate among Premier League fans (calculated based on those who smoke at least once a day) is 20%. But which clubs are home to the heaviest smokers, reporting smoking rates that are nearly triple the UK average, and which clubs’ fans are leading the league for low smoking rates?
The survey, conducted by Haypp, analysed the lifestyle habits of 2,519 Premier League football fans and found that it was fans of clubs such as Arsenal and Bournemouth that reported the lowest daily smoking rates (14% and 15%). Although the lowest in the league, this is still significantly higher than the UK average. Some clubs, such as Sunderland (29%), Crystal Palace (28%), and Burnley (27%), have smoking rates amongst fans that are three times the UK average.
When it comes to those who smoked at least once a day, the clubs with the lowest portion of daily smokers are:
- Arsenal – 14%
- Bournemouth – 15%
- Tottenham- 17%
- Chelsea – 17%
- Liverpool – 17%
At the other end of the scale, the five clubs with the highest proportion of fans who smoke at least once a day are:
- Sunderland – 29%
- Crystal Palace – 28%
- Burnley – 27%
- Everton – 23%
- Newcastle United – 23%
Male Premier League fans are significantly more likely to smoke, with 22% reporting they smoke at least once a day, compared with just 18% of female fans.
The Premier League has made efforts to discourage smoking at games, enforcing a strict no-smoking and no-vaping policy throughout all stadiums, including seating areas, concourses, and restrooms, with severe penalties like ejection or season ticket revocation for violations. Fans are also generally not allowed to re-enter the game if they leave to smoke.
Commenting on the findings, Markus Lindblad, Head of External Affairs at Haypp, said: “Our study reveals a compelling, yet concerning, picture of daily smoking habits among Premier League football fans, with the average rate significantly surpassing the national UK figure. The findings underline the importance of targeted public health messages, especially promoting the availability of smoke-free alternatives among football fans.”