‘No Scotland, no party!’: diversity, identity and fandom in Scottish women’s football

Abstract

This article investigates the fanbase of women’s football in Scotland, focusing on supporters of the Scotland Women’s National Team (SWNT). Drawing on a large-scale survey of over 2300 fans and participant observation at seven matches, the study explores the demographics, motivations, and experiences of supporters. By comparing fans of women’s football with those of men’s football, it highlights key differences in identity, values, and fan culture. Findings reveal a distinctive and diverse audience, including significant representation of women and LGBTQ+ communities, motivated by inclusivity, representation, and a welcoming matchday atmosphere. A typology of fan identities is developed, and tensions between traditional and emerging fan cultures are explored. The study argues that the growth of women’s football in Scotland depends on increased visibility, and support for underrepresented groups. By centring fans often overlooked in football research, it offers an original contribution to the sociology of sport and the study of fandom.