Analysis of travel behaviour of professional sports organisation members to the stadium: Future implications for sustainability

Abstract

This research focuses on the analysis of the travel behaviour of paid members of a professional sports organisation (PSO) on the route taken between their areas of residence to the stadium. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between the type of transport, fuel, and number of occupants members selected for this displacement. An online survey was distributed among PSO’s paid members, and a total of 5694 responses were obtained. Data were analysed through descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. Most members travel to the stadium by car (66%); public transport (subway, train, and bus) is used by 23.5%, and only 5.1% use vehicles powered by more environmentally friendly energies. There is a relationship between the distance travelled between members’ residences and the selected means of transport, the fuel used, and the number of people transported. Globally, it is necessary to define policies that promote the use of public transport to the detriment of an individual vehicle. Individually, paid members are required to become aware of the pollution generated when travelling to the stadium, promoting new behaviours (e.g., using a car with more occupants). PSOs can generate new forms of communication to attract new members and alternative sources of income.