World Cup Nations' Most Supportive Fans Revealed by Skyscanner

Released on: June 01, 2010, 8:29 am
Author: Skyscanner Ltd
Industry: Travel

Flight search data from cheap flights comparison site Skyscanner has revealed that the US has topped this year’s list as the nation to have the highest year on year increase in summer searches to South Africa, hosts of this-year’s World Cup.

With searches for flights to South Africa more than quadrupling, hoards of American fans are expected to make the trip to South Africa next month to support their team as they compete in the World Cup.

Not known for their passion for soccer, America has shown a greater increase in searches for South Africa during the World Cup dates than any other country, including football crazy nations Germany, England and Italy!

Spain, the current European champion, holds strong in second-place, with a respectable 409% increase in searches while rival Brazil, are third, with a growth of 399%.

At the other end of the scale are the Italians. Despite being the current World Cup champions, searches for flights to South Africa have only increased by a third – a fairly modest rise given the huge global attention that the World Cup commands.

Scot Carlson, US & Canada Country Manager commented: “This is totally unexpected. Obviously it is great that Americans are taking such an interest in the World Cup but really surprising given that football is not one of America’s favourite sports. Let’s hope this support will lead to an equally surprising performance for the team - perhaps this year will be our chance to shine?!”

Country % Rise in travel to South Africa for World Cup 2010 period
USA 440%
Spain 409%
Brazil 399%
France 331%
Australia 308%
Portugal 272%
Germany 250%
Netherlands 226%
England 206%
Italy 134%

Data based on percentage increase in flight searches from respective countries to South Africa for World Cup 2010 period, compared same period in 2009.

About Skyscanner.com
Skyscanner instantly compares online flight prices for over 670,000 routes on over 600 airlines, including the best European flight deals. Speak another language? Skyscanner is also available in 20 different languages: including Spanish, Chinese and French.

Press contact:
Scot Carlson
www.skyscanner.com
scotc@skyscanner.net / maryp@skyscanner.net
Tel: 1-650-249-3747