Scottish football has kicked off the 2024/25 season with a remarkable display of fan engagement and economic impact.
In just the first two weekends, over a quarter of a million supporters have attended matches across the Scottish Professional Football League’s (SPFL) four divisions, signalling a strong start to the season and a boost for local economies.
The SPFL has reported a total attendance of 255,850 across the William Hill Premiership, Championship, League One, and League Two.
This figure represents a significant increase of more than 50,000 compared to the first two rounds of the 2013/14 season, when the SPFL was initially launched.
Key Highlights
- Premiership Powerhouses: Celtic led the way with 58,712 fans at Celtic Park, while Rangers drew 48,529 to Hampden Park.
- Championship Draw: Falkirk’s away match against Dunfermline attracted 7,595 spectators, the highest attendance outside the top flight.
- Lower League Interest: Even in League One, the Arbroath vs. Montrose derby saw over 2,000 fans in attendance.
This surge in attendance has significant economic implications for clubs, local businesses, and the broader Scottish economy.
Higher attendance translates to increased ticket sales and matchday revenue for clubs while surrounding businesses such as pubs, restaurants, and shops benefit from the influx of fans on match days.
Additionally, sustained high attendance could lead to more jobs in and around stadiums, further contributing to local economic growth.
SPFL group chief executive Neil Doncaster said: “It’s really positive to see such significant attendances right across the country on our opening two weekends of the league season.
“Scottish football fans are renowned for their incredible support, so it’s great to welcome more than a quarter of a million supporters to league games across our four divisions already this season.
“Our game has enjoyed record yearly attendances for two consecutive seasons now in the SPFL, and these strong opening weekend crowds are more good news for Scottish football.”
