England Fans Opt for Darts Over Football Fan Zones in New York

England supporters travelling to the United States for the World Cup are exhibiting a unique approach to fan engagement, with many choosing to attend the US Darts Masters at Madison Square Garden over traditional football fan zones or organized viewing events.

Despite the global focus on the World Cup, a significant number of England fans have been drawn to the darts tournament, creating a vibrant atmosphere that has captured headlines. This trend highlights a divergence from the more visible, organized fan activities seen from other nations.

Fan Absence in Times Square

Times Square, often a hub for viral fan moments during major tournaments, has seen a relatively subdued presence from England supporters. While other nations have been noted for large-scale organized gatherings and chants, England fans have largely kept a lower profile. On the eve of England’s decisive Group L fixture against Panama, news crews anticipating a surge of fan activity in Times Square encountered only a handful of supporters, including two individuals holding a St George’s flag.

Joe, one of the flag bearers, explained this understated approach, stating, “We don’t usually do dances or anything like that. We just like to do arm curls, as we call it, and have a good time.” This sentiment suggests a preference for a more individualistic or relaxed form of support rather than large, coordinated displays.

Low Profile and No Trouble

A key factor contributing to England’s low profile has been the absence of any reported trouble. To date, there have been no arrests of England supporters in the US during the three weeks of the tournament, a statistic that underscores a generally well-behaved travelling fanbase. Any minor friction, such as that experienced with some bar owners in Boston who reportedly preferred serving Scottish patrons, has been described as polite.

Divergent Support Styles

The preference for the US Darts Masters over other organized events points to a different fan culture. Unlike many European nations that have central fan groups orchestrating marches and chants, England lacks such a unified structure. This has left a vacuum that corporate sponsors have attempted to fill.

Sports Direct, for instance, has organized ticketed watch-alongs at venues like Carragher’s in downtown New York, offering incentives such as free tickets and Beckham-inspired mohawks from an in-pub barber. While these events have proven popular, the draw of the darts has proven stronger for many.

The US Darts Masters, held at Madison Square Garden, has become a popular destination for England fans, who have been observed energetically supporting the players, singing popular anthems like “Chase the Sun.” The demand for tickets, even on resale sites, indicates the event’s significant appeal.

Fan Expenses and Expectations

The cost of attending World Cup matches and supporting the team throughout the tournament is a significant consideration for travelling fans. Jack, from Oldham, who has followed England across multiple cities, acknowledged the financial strain. “It’s kind of on track, but I think this weekend it’s going to go out the window,” he said, referring to his planned attendance at the darts. “I’m going to the darts tonight, so that’s going to be a fortune.”

The expense of drinks at matchday stadiums, often priced at around $20 each, further adds to the overall cost. Despite the financial implications, fans like Jack express a sense of inevitability, stating, “You just don’t care. The buzz is there, the adrenaline is there and you just… deal with it when you get back.”

This expectation of deep tournament runs influences travel plans and budgets, with many fans booking flights covering the entire potential duration of England’s participation. The Football Supporters Association is providing resources to help fans manage costs, suggesting cheaper accommodation options in areas like Hoboken and Jersey City.

Key facts

The shift in focus for some England fans towards the US Darts Masters underscores the diverse ways supporters engage with major sporting events. While the World Cup remains the primary focus, the allure of other live sporting spectacles can attract dedicated fanbases, especially when offering a unique and energetic atmosphere. For readers following the broader sporting landscape and fan culture surrounding major tournaments, this trend offers an interesting insight into the choices made by travelling supporters.

Source: The Guardian Football, https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/jun/26/england-fans-choose-darts-over-joining-world-cup-big-fan-energy