The CEO of Footballco, Jason Wagenheim, believes that Messi’s influence on American soccer is on par with the power couple Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift, who are impacting the NFL (American football).
“I think to some extent, what Messi has done for American soccer fans is similar to what Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have done for the recent surge of women attending NFL games,” said Jason Wagenheim, CEO of Footballco.
Footballco is a media company headquartered in London, UK, specializing in building portals, conducting sports market research, with a focus on the next generation of audiences.
Recently, NFL player Travis Kelce publicly revealed his relationship with the famous pop singer Taylor Swift, which has caused a wave of teenage girls flocking to watch the NFL. According to Footballco’s research, NFL viewership has increased by 53%. Specifically, the audience aged 18-24 increased by 24%.
This is considered the Swift effect, as the pop star has a huge fan base. Therefore, when the idol publicly reveals her relationship with football player Travis Kelce, it also brings her fans to the NFL.
This event has also sparked much debate in American sports. Many questions arise, whether the NFL (America’s top sport) needs Taylor Swift to attract viewers. However, many also support the relationship between Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift, believing it to be true love, and the synergy from this love affects the NFL positively.
“Meanwhile, since Messi arrived in the United States, he has had a huge impact on soccer here, reaching new heights. Messi’s presence has attracted a large number of celebrities and fans to fill stadiums across the country, wherever Inter Miami CF plays,” said Jason Wagenheim.