British rugby fans anticipating the kick-off of the 2015 Rugby World Cup should prepare for a strong international turnout, as research reveals that tourist arrivals into England from countries that have teams playing have almost doubled (90% increase) compared to the same period last year.
The study by online travel company, Opodo, highlights the countries that have the biggest influx of rugby supporters flying in to watch their teams battle it out on the rugby pitch and Japan leads the way with almost 20 times more tourists expected, which will boost encouragement at their first match against South Africa’s Springboks in Brighton on September 19.
The list of ‘Top 10 supporting nations’ by tourist arrivals during next month’ world cup includes:
1. Japan
2. Argentina
3. USA
4. Georgia
5. South Africa
6. Romania
7. New Zealand
8. Australia
9. France
10. Ireland
Puma supporters will be in full force against the legendary All Blacks at Wembley Stadium on September 20 as tourist arrivals from Argentina are 16 times higher than usual. In third place with a 450% surge in visitors flying in next month is the USA, who is playing their first match against Samoa.
Although Pool A is a firm favourite for local supporters who are keen to see England and Wales battle it out on 26 September at Twickenham, Pool B’s top supporting nations – Japan, the USA and South Africa- have a combined increase of 2600% more travellers flying in during the event.
France’s rugby team Les Bleus and Australia’s Wallabies are both attracting twice more visitors to England during the Rugby World Cup matches, meanwhile closer to home, 80% more Irish rugby fanatics and 50% more Scottish supporters will be making a short watch their teams in action.
