Asymmetric effects of spectator presence on home and away team performance: a natural experiment from the 2021 K League 1 season.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The presence of spectators is a well-known factor contributing to home advantage in competitive sports. However, isolating its direct effect on team performance has proven difficult. This study aims to assess the influence of spectator attendance on the performance of home and away teams using a natural experimental setting during the 2021 K League 1 season, which experienced regional differences in spectator policies due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This retrospective observational study analyzed 162 matches in the 2021 K League 1 season. Match variables were categorized into three domains: outcome factors (e.g., points, win percentage), tactical factors (e.g., shots on target, total shots), and violation factors (e.g., fouls, cards) to evaluate team perfo

SUBMITTER: Lee J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12434956 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature