One in three Brits will avoid watching summer's major sporting events

27 June 2024 , 12:13

393     0

One in three Brits will avoid watching this summer's sporting events - while the same number are already bored of the coverage so far. (Image: SWNS)

A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 15% are 'very uninterested' in watching football, tennis or athletics on the telly. A whopping 69% are already seeking alternative activities while their loved ones are engrossed in televised sports.

Around 16% plan to dodge the sports mania on big match days, opting to hang out with friends who share their lack of interest in sports.

However, more than one in 10 (13%) confess they might get swept up in the excitement and end up watching some events due to FOMO - fear of missing out.

Nicole Whelan, from Haagen-Dazs, which commissioned the study and is organising sport-free events across the UK as an alternative form of entertainment during the sports-filled summer, said: "It's undeniable, 2024 is shaping up to be a sport-soaked summer. But we know that's not everyone's flavour."

"As the stadiums fill and pubs pack with passionate fanatics, we want to let you escape it all and enjoy ice cream - celebrating scoops, not scores."

Abandoned factory has room piled with deer antlers that somehow 'keeps growing'

The research also found that 15% of adults have feigned interest in a sport to fit in with friends or colleagues. Interestingly, 28% have developed a genuine love for a sport because someone close to them was interested.

For those dedicated sport-avoiders, 33% are looking forward to less crowded shops when big events are broadcast on TV. While friends and family are busy cheering on athletes, 31% of Brits will be taking some time for themselves.

More than one in 10 (11%) would sooner clean out the bins than check in on the sporting action, according to the OnePoll.com figures. (SWNS)

Just over a tenth (13%) will also seize the opportunity to hit the gym when it's likely to be quieter. One in five adults would rather wash their hair than tune into sports this summer, while 16 % would opt for mowing the lawn.

More than one in 10 (11%) would sooner clean out the bins than check in on the sporting action, according to figures from OnePoll.com.

Those seeking alternative summer activities can head to the Haagen-Dazs Flavour Club, which is coming to Manchester, London and Edinburgh from June to August, offering free entertainment as an alternative to the summer of sports.

Nicole Whelan, from the ice cream brand, said: "Sport is incredible, but you'd be surprised how many people are looking for something different - and luckily this summertime there's a whole world of non-sporting activity to enjoy."

"At our events we've got everything from DJ sets, comedians, bands, lawn games and places to relax and reconnect with friends, (hopefully) soaking in the sun and indulging in your favourite ice cream."

Here's what Brits would rather be doing than watching sports:

1. Having a nap.
2. Cooking.
3. Hiking in nature.
4. Going to the supermarket.
5. Washing my hair.
6. Walking the dog.
7. Sorting out my kitchen cupboards.
8. Bagging up some old clothes and give them to charity.
9. Mowing the lawn.
10. Going to the gym.
11. Meal prepping for the week ahead.
12. Painting the garden fence.
13. Striking up a conversation with a neighbour.
14. Defrosting the freezer.
15. Cleaning out the bins.

Esti Pujana