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The impact of uncertainty on fan interest surrounding multiple outcomes in open European football leagues

Author

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  • Pedro Garcia‐del‐Barrio
  • J. James Reade

Abstract

This paper uses searches via Google to evaluate the importance of uncertainty in driving demand for entertainment events. We consider various dimensions of uncertainty of outcome in European football to examine whether the removal of uncertainty surrounding the winner of a competition before its conclusion reduces interest. We find a significant decrease in interest, although this appears mitigated by the existence of multiple objectives, such as qualifying for European competitions and avoiding relegation. We conclude that such a diversified and open structure (including promotion and relegation) is desirable in leagues that do not have a final play‐off system.

Suggested Citation

  • Pedro Garcia‐del‐Barrio & J. James Reade, 2026. "The impact of uncertainty on fan interest surrounding multiple outcomes in open European football leagues," Economic Inquiry, Western Economic Association International, vol. 64(1), pages 371-390, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ecinqu:v:64:y:2026:i:1:p:371-390
    DOI: 10.1111/ecin.70024
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    Cited by:

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    2. Sarthak S. Behera & Divya Sadana, 2025. "The impact of visibility on school athletic finances: an empirical analysis using Google Trends," Empirical Economics, Springer, vol. 69(3), pages 1585-1629, September.
    3. Singleton, Carl & Bell, Adrian R. & Chung, Andy & Reade, J. James & Urquhart, Andrew, 2024. "Scoring goals: The impact of English Premier League football teams on local university admissions," Economics Letters, Elsevier, vol. 244(C).

    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J33 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Compensation Packages; Payment Methods
    • J71 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination - - - Hiring and Firing

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