As Euro 2016 excitement begins to take off, members of the Green Army making the trip to France will be shelling out up to €2,000 for the pleasure of shouting on the boys in green.
In a survey carried out by Continental Tyres, official sponsor of UEFA Euro 2016, and You Boys in Green website (ybig.ie ), it emerged that some 45 per cent of fans who are planning on travelling to France will spend up to €2,000 for the trip. 27 per cent said that they will spend less than €1,000.
A more privileged group or, perhaps, a more indebted group of fans (22 per cent ), say they will spend between €2,000 and €4,000 over the two weeks of the group stages.
And it looks like most fans will be throwing caution to the wind if Ireland progresses in the competition to the final 16 as 79 per cent of fans say they will stay on if Ireland gets out of the group stage.
The vast majority of fans (70 per cent ) are hoping to attend all three matches as part of a 1,400km road (and / or train ) trip. While for those attending just one match, Lille is the most popular option (Ireland v Italy on June 22nd ) with 15 per cent making the pilgrimage to the northern French city.
The survey showed that 2/3 of respondents (66 per cent ) have booked their own flights and accommodation rather than using a travel company/agent. Recreating Joxer’s memorable trip to Stuttgart in 1988 in a Hiace, 13 per cent of fans said they will depart for France in a van or camper. Just 7 per cent will drive to France in a car.
Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres Ireland said: “We are delighted to be associated with UEFA Euro 2016 which is going to be the high point of a sport-filled summer. For those fans either driving to France or planning on driving while they are there, we would urge them to keep the craic in its proper place, on the terraces and in the hostelries, but when behind the wheel, to always follow the rules of the road, obey the speed limit and be courteous. And of course, never ever drink and drive. You are representing your country, lads!”
Dennigan pointed out that for fans who may be travelling in a camper van that may have been lying stationary for a number of months, particular attention should be paid to the condition of the vehicle’s tyres as they can deteriorate over time when a vehicle is parked up for long periods. In addition, if travelling in an overloaded vehicle (with a full quota of passengers and bags ), the driver will need to adjust the tyre pressures accordingly. You should consult the car’s manual or check with your local tyre dealer.
