With football stadiums serving as the heartbeat of club culture, this research highlights how dedicated fan groups are transforming matchday atmospheres and potentially affecting results on the pitch.
Historically, home teams in the Premier League have won 45.8% of matches (5,779 out of 12,624), demonstrating the undeniable influence of a strong stadium atmosphere. Football legends Gianluigi Buffon and Pep Guardiola have both emphasised how crowd energy can lift players and impact results. The latest data suggests that organised flag displays are a significant factor in this dynamic.
Top Premier League Clubs for Flag Displays
Newcastle United – Wor Flags
The fan-driven Wor Flags initiative has turned St. James’ Park into a fortress. Since their return in 2021, Newcastle has recorded a 63% home win rate in the 2022/23 season, reinforcing the power of passionate home support.
Crystal Palace – Holmesdale Fanatics
Selhurst Park is renowned for its intense atmosphere, thanks in part to the Holmesdale Fanatics. Over the past two seasons, Palace has maintained a 40% home win rate, often exceeding expectations in front of their devoted supporters.
Liverpool – The Kop’s Historic Banners
Liverpool’s iconic Kop End, awash with flags and banners, has played a key role in Anfield’s incredible home record. From April 2017 to January 2021, Liverpool went unbeaten in 68 consecutive home games, with a 68.42% home win rate in 2022/23 compared to just 31.58% away.
Manchester City – Blue Moon Rising
Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium has become a fortress, with their South Stand fans embracing flag displays to enhance the matchday atmosphere. City won an astonishing 89.47% of home games in 2022/23, compared to 57.89% away.
The Growing Influence of Fan Displays
Beyond statistics, the research highlights the emotional and psychological impact of passionate fan support. Organised flag displays not only energise players but also create an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. As clubs and supporters continue to invest in choreographed displays, their role in shaping match outcomes becomes even more apparent.
What This Means for Football Culture
With fan-led initiatives growing across the Premier League, the findings underline the evolving influence of supporters in modern football. Whether through large-scale tifo displays or carefully orchestrated flag arrangements, these visual spectacles are more than just symbols they are an integral part of a club’s home advantage.