Rafa’s army recruiting for Wimbledon 2011

The Wimbledon Experience announces growing Spanish demand for The Championships

Press information for release 17 November 2010

The Wimbledon Experience has announced growing Spanish demand for tours and official tickets for The Championships (20th June – 3rd July 2011).

The Wimbledon Experience, managed by Keith Prowse, is the official inbound tour operator for The Championships and demand indicates that 2011 will see an approximate uplift of 30% on last years 1,509 Spanish fans.  The spike in the number of Spaniards travelling inbound to the  UK has been attributed to the achievements of reigning Wimbledon champion Rafael Nadal, who is chasing a third Wimbledon crown and rival Roger Federer’s record of 16 Grand Slam titles. 

The ‘Iberian Invasion’ reflects the large numbers of fans travelling from the United States in the 1980s and 1990s, a trend also tracked by The Wimbledon Experience in its 28 years as officially appointed hospitality provider for The Championships.  The surge across the Atlantic coincided with the glory years of former champions Pete Sampras, Jimmy Connors and John McEnroe, and fans from the United States.  The USA still ranked as the biggest away support in 2010, with 21% share of Wimbledon’s international fanbase followed by Australia with 13%, and Spain with 9%.

The multinational make-up of Wimbledon’s audience has developed noticeably through The Wimbledon Experience and asserts The Championships as one the most globally magnetic sports events in the UK. 

This year The Wimbledon Experience includes The Baseline Tour, The Finals Tour and a VIP tour overseen by corporate hospitality specialist Keith Prowse.  The flexibility of different tours and packages throughout Championship fortnight gives overseas spectators greater freedom when booking for Wimbledon 2011. Outings to the West End’s most popular productions and London’s top restaurants can also now be scheduled into visitors’ itineraries.

Ted Walker, Head of Marketing at Keith Prowse said: “The upsurge in Spanish interest demonstrates not only the loyalty of Rafael Nadal’s fans but the strength of Spain as a sporting nation. The international atmosphere around the All England Club during The Championships gives the tournament a uniquely cosmopolitan feel. The Wimbledon Experience is the tournament’s international gateway and we look forward to showcasing the best in British cuisine and service, as well as sport, next summer.”

 For further information please contact Triggerfish Communications on 020 7233 9700.