What Watching a Soccer Final Does to Your Body: Science Reveals Physiological Effects

Watching a soccer final can significantly impact your body, particularly during high-stakes moments. A study conducted by researchers at Bielefeld University in Germany found that fans' physiological stress levels rise by approximately 41 percent during a soccer final compared to a regular day. This research focused on the 2025 German Cup final.

Heart Rate and Stress Levels Rise During Matches

The study monitored 229 fans of the German club Arminia Bielefeld over three months, utilizing smartwatches to record heart rates and estimate stress indices based on heart rate variability. On match day, average heart rates soared from 70.9 beats per minute to 78.7 beats per minute, with the most intense spikes occurring just before kickoff.

Fans at the stadium experienced an even more dramatic increase, with heart rates averaging 94.2 beats per minute, while those watching on television averaged 79.4 beats per minute. After a team's first goal, stadium-goers' heart rates jumped to an average of 108 beats per minute.

The Role of Alcohol and Anticipation

Alcohol consumption further heightened these physiological responses. Fans who reported drinking during the game had heart rates approximately 5 percent higher during the match and nearly 12 percent higher after their team's first goal. The researchers noted that while they did not assess medical risks, alcohol can exacerbate cardiovascular strain during emotionally charged events.

Interestingly, the highest recorded heart rates occurred in the initial moments of the match when the outcome was uncertain. As the game progressed and it seemed a winner was emerging, heart rates dropped, but late-game goals caused spikes, reflecting not just the game's objective chances but also emotional responses like hope and pride.

Previous Research on Soccer and Health Risks

The findings align with earlier studies, including research published in the New England Journal of Medicine following the 2006 World Cup. This research indicated that the risk of suffering an acute cardiovascular event nearly triples during matches involving the German national team for individuals with preexisting heart conditions.

Moreover, subsequent studies have shown that matches can elevate stress hormones such as cortisol. Fans with a strong identification with their team exhibit more intense biological responses during critical matches, reinforcing the deep connection between sports and physiological reactions.