Niche Fixtures Worth Backing This Month

As we head into a busy month for sport, we’ve identified three key niche fixtures that offer real opportunity for pubs to drive footfall and dwell time.

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Whether you’ve got access to free-to-air channels or Sky/DAZN, these picks are all about offering something different that still delivers on crowd-pulling potential.

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Here’s why each one is worth your attention:

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France v South Africa 

Sat Nov 8th @ 20:10  | TNT Sports

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South Africa v France isn’t just another international - it’s a heavyweight clash with serious pulling power.

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Over the last 12 months, average searches on FANZO for South Africa rugby fixtures are 2.3x higher than the average for Premier League football fixtures - clear proof the Springboks move the needle.

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Why it’s a win for pubs:

• World champions on show: South Africa are reigning Rugby World Cup winners, fans turn up when the Springboks play.
• Huge audience relevance: There's a strong Springbok fanbase across the UK, especially in major cities.
• Blockbuster rematch energy: South Africa v France was decided by just one point at the World Cup - fans will be watching for redemption or repeat.
• Premier League clash-proof: For venues without Sky Sports but with TNT, this is the perfect premium alternative on a busy weekend.

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Grand Slam of Darts

8th–16th November | Sky Sports

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With packed crowds, high engagement, and sessions across two weekends, the Grand Slam of Darts is a ready-made pub footfall driver.

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Why it’s a win for pubs:

• Big atmosphere, big groups: Darts is one of the most social sports, fans come in groups and stay for multiple sessions.
• Two-week opportunity: Stretching over two weekends gives you repeat event potential and lots of promotional windows.
• High spend, high energy: Ideal for food deals, pitchers, and creating a lively in-venue vibe.
• Builds momentum: This sits perfectly ahead of the World Darts Championship, helping you establish your venue as a darts destination early.

If you want noise, atmosphere and committed sports fans planning nights out — darts delivers.

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Inter Milan v AC Milan

Saturday 23rd November @ 19:45 | DAZN

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Serie A is the second most-watched foreign league on FANZO in the UK, and Inter Milan v AC Milan was the third most-searched fixture last season - proof this rivalry already has serious pull.

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Why it’s a win for pubs:

• One of world football’s biggest derbies: The Derby della Madonnina is as intense and story-packed as it gets.
• Saturday evening slot: Prime time for footfall, especially in the absence of a standout Premier League clash in that slot.
• Growing appetite for European football: We’ve seen consistent increases in interest around other top rivalries like El Clásico and Bayern v Dortmund — this follows that trend.
• High-quality football, high-emotion viewing: A great opportunity to attract both dedicated fans and weekend social crowds looking for a marquee game.

European rivalries are becoming key pub moments — and this one sits firmly in that bracket.

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Promote Early, Promote Smart

Get the posters up, update your social media, and let your regulars know what you’re showing.

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These niche fixtures might not have the same automatic pull as Premier League football, but they offer a chance to stand out, reach new customers, and fill your venue when others might be quiet.

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