The Latino Legacy: The incredible impact of the Hispanic community in U.S. sports.
The American sports landscape is a diverse and vibrant reflection of the cultural richness influenced by the Hispanic community residing in the United States.
With 4 out of 10 Latinos consuming sports daily and soccer fans driving 52% growth between 2012 and 2019, basketball and baseball also saw 27% and 8% increases during the same period.
Despite existing challenges in reaching the Hispanic community, gaining an understanding of their origins and interests is essential. Baseball, football, basketball, and even the NFL are Hispanic favorites in the sports world.
Therefore, to understand this diverse group, one must study several factors, starting with the following:
– Most Hispanic immigrants in the U.S. are from Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Cuba.
– The most popular sports in these regions are soccer in Mexico and baseball in Puerto Rico and Cuba.
– By 2050, 2 out of 5 MLB players will be Latino.
– Latinos will drive a 27% increase in total soccer viewership by 2050.
– Latinos prefer to watch sports in Spanish.
– They enjoy watching sports with family and friends.
– Hispanic fans are 54% more likely to support companies that sponsor their team.
The Significant Impact of a Diverse Community
This growth affects not only television consumption but also stadium attendance and merchandising.
– Hispanic football fans spend 7% more on team apparel, tickets, and sports merchandise.
– More than 29% of Hispanics have fuboTV on their bilingual devices. This means that Hispanics prefer to pay for a sports app.
– In recent years, the number of Latino sports fans has increased by 25%.
The impact of Hispanic audiences on sports consumption has captured the attention of major corporations, recognizing this community as a significant economic powerhouse for the country.
A community on and off the field
The diversity of the Hispanic community is striking, so understanding their participation in the most popular sports will give you insight into connecting with this impactful audience. Here are some key facts:
Baseball (MLB): As of 2021, 228 players of Latino origin were in the league, representing 25% of the total players.
American football (NFL): In 2022, 8 players of Latino origin participated in the regular season. By 2024, they were on the field and represented in entertainment and advertising.
Basketball (NBA): The 2021 season ended with 7 Hispanics playing on various teams in the league.
Soccer (MLS): In recent years, Latino influence in this sport has been crucial. It is an investment space for large companies, such as Nike, which seeks to promote soccer in the country. Clubs are betting on Latino talent, and at least six executives are of Latino origin.
There is no denying that Hispanics significantly impact sports and continue to grow at all levels.
To unlock the full potential of the Hispanic market, sports clubs and organizations must cater to this audience’s unique needs and preferences based on their region of origin. By doing so, they can establish a strong, loyal, and passionate fan base. Want to know how to achieve this? Check out our website!