Complimentary taxis are taking to the roads for England fans to help them chill before kick-off.
The anxiety-busting rides come as almost half (45%) of English adults polled ahead of the opening match of the Euros admitted they worried that micro-stressors put a dampener on their enjoyment of the game.
Although a huge 84% are looking forward to cheering on the Three Lions, many worry about the interferences of day-to day life.
The majority (98%) of fans are planning to watch some of the games away from home – but over a third (36%) fear they will be held up by travel disruption and 48% are stressing about finding a space in a bar to see the big screen.
The complimentary cabs are being offered by Extra Gum to lucky supporters that spot their branded fleet.
In all, 43% admitted they are suffering from pre-match nerves. Almost a third (31%) fear they will be too busy with work to knock off on time and 27% are concerned they won’t be able to ‘switch off’ and fully enjoy the tournament.
Extra Gum, which commissioned the research of 2,000 England residents, has teamed up with the Football Association and Theo Walcott to banish the match day blues and help fans enjoy a summer of sport.
To help navigate busy city centres and get them to the bars and venues in good time, a fleet of special taxis will be on standby to provide stress-free journeys in London, Manchester, and Liverpool.
In a campaign kicked off by Walcott, each taxi ride provides a relaxing space equipped with chewing gum and motivational pep talks from renowned players Joe Gomez, Ezri Konza, and James Maddison to get them game ready.
Over a third (35%) of those surveyed said that a pep talk from an England player would alleviate their micro-stress before a game, ensuring fans arrive at their preferred viewing venues, feeling calm, focused, and ready to enjoy the match.
To launch the service, Walcott surprised stressed-out fans heading to watch England versus Serbia in London on Sunday night. He was seen mingling with supporters and boosting their spirit ahead of the nail-biting match.
Walcott said: “I know first-hand the excitement and pressure that comes with big games like the UEFA European Championship. This summer I’m happy to help fans focus on the fun and excitement of the game rather than the stress of getting there.”
Lucy Sherlock at Extra commented: “Our research shows just how much micro-stress can impact daily life, especially during big events like this. By offering free rides, we hope to give fans a moment to breathe and get ready to enjoy the England game wherever they’re watching. It’s about creating a better game-day experience.”
The fleet of taxis will be running for the second and third group games on the 20th and 25th of June. If you spot an Extra Gum branded taxi, simply hail it down, and it will take you to your chosen venue to watch the England game within 10 miles of pick up in Manchester and Liverpool and within zones 1 and 2 of the London Tube Map.
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