Study: Steelers among Most Popular Sports Franchises in North America

A recent study overseen by Online Betting Guide determined that the Pittsburgh Steelers are among the most popular North American sports franchises. The analysis shows they rank behind only the Dallas Cowboys and New England Patriots. This is based on factors such as fan attendance, search volume, and social media following.

OLBG’s research found that the Steelers have averaged an attendance of 67,541 fans at home games this season. There were more than 23 million searches for the team between November 2021 and October 2022.

The Steelers have a loyal fanbase, with no distance being too far for them to travel to support the team. Pittsburgh faithful filled Mercedes-Benz Stadium this past Sunday to take in a win over Atlanta.

The passion for the Steelers transcends borders, as Mexico was designated as an “International Home Marketing Area” for the team last year. The rights allow them the “rights to pursue activities in that international market that are consistent with what they can do in their domestic HMA. This includes in-person and digital marketing, corporate sponsorship sales, fan events and activities, merchandise sales, and co-marketing relationships with other sports and entertainment properties in the market.”

Forbes valued the Cowboys — affectionately known as “America’s Team” — at $8 billion earlier this year. That makes them the most valuable team in all of sports. With profitable sponsorships, they’re also the first team to bring in over $1 billion in revenue. In 2021, Dallas collected over $220 million in stadium advertising and sponsorship income. That total is more than double that of any other team.

The Patriots’ regard has skyrocketed since Robert Kraft bought the team for $172 million in 1994. They’ve won six Super Bowl titles since then and are valued at $6.4 billion as of August.

OLBG also found the Pittsburgh Penguins to be the most popular hockey franchise in North America. The Pittsburgh Pirates rank as the 23rd most popular baseball club.