WHILE Bafana Bafana contends for the Fifa World Cup, South African fans have been ranked fifth among 45 non-host nations in the world’s most colourful supporter cultures.

South African fans were especially recognised for rhythm, colour and a warm, celebratory tournament presence.

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The results form part of the World Cup Reputation Index, commissioned by British entrepreneur and lifelong football fan Sam Allcock.

A total of 5 200 US adults were surveyed across the 16 Fifa 2026 host cities to explore how visiting supporters shape perceptions of their countries on the world stage.

The survey, conducted after the first round of matches, suggests visiting supporters are not only representing their teams, but also influence how host communities perceive their country.

Overall, 73% of Americans surveyed said the behaviour of visiting fans affects how they view a country.
A further 75% agreed that well-behaved visiting fans can improve a country’s reputation abroad, while 68% said a positive experience with a country’s fans would make them more interested in visiting that country.

“Every world cup fanbase has its own personality and its own reputation. Some supporters are admired for the way they clean up after themselves. Some are loved for their songs, colour and noise. Others are known for friendliness, humour, loyalty, family pride, food culture, or the simple ability to turn a city square into a party,” said Allcock.

“South African fans have one of the most recognisable tournament identities in world football. The colour, rhythm and sound associated with South African support clearly leave an impression, and this research shows how much those positive fan traditions can contribute to a country’s reputation on the world stage,” said Allcock.

The report also explored what Americans most want from visiting supporters during the tournament.
Friendliness toward locals was ranked as the most important quality, chosen by 24% of respondents, followed by avoiding aggressive or intimidating behaviour at 19%, respect for public spaces at 15%, and good sportsmanship at 11%.

When asked what makes a good fan ambassador, Americans again prioritised positive behaviour.
The top answers were being friendly to locals, being passionate but respectful, celebrating without causing problems, showing respect after wins and losses, and having a good sense of humour.

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