The Underdogs: Meet the 39 Most Surprisingly Followed Sports Teams
When it comes to sports, there are always a few teams that dominate the headlines and fan followings. These are the teams with the biggest budgets, the most talented players, and the highest expectations. However, there are also those teams that may not have the same resources or star power, but still manage to capture the hearts and loyalty of fans around the world. These are the underdogs, the teams that may not be favored to win, but still manage to surprise and inspire us with their passion, determination, and hard work.
In this blog post, we will take a closer look at 39 of the most surprisingly followed sports teams from various leagues and countries. These teams have defied odds and expectations to gain a strong and dedicated fan base, proving that success in sports is not just about winning championships, but also about creating a strong connection with fans.
1) Leicester City F.C. (English Premier League)
Probably the most well-known underdog story in recent years, Leicester City F.C. shocked the football world by winning the English Premier League title in the 2015-2016 season. The team, which had previously been struggling in lower divisions, proved that anything is possible with hard work and determination. Their unexpected victory captured the hearts of not only their home city of Leicester, but also fans around the world.
2) Iceland National Football Team
Another football underdog, the Iceland National Football Team made their first appearance in the UEFA European Championship in 2016 and advanced to the quarter-finals, defeating strong teams like England along the way. The team’s success on the international stage has earned them a dedicated fan base, despite being a small country with a population of only 330,000.
3) Jamaica National Bobsleigh Team
Made famous by the movie “Cool Runnings”, the Jamaica National Bobsleigh Team has been an unlikely but beloved team in the Winter Olympics since their debut in 1988. Despite facing challenges such as lack of funding and training facilities, they have become a symbol of perseverance and determination, inspiring fans around the world.
4) New Zealand All Blacks (Rugby)
The New Zealand All Blacks are known as one of the best rugby teams in the world, with a winning record of over 75%. Despite their dominance in the sport, the team is also known for their humility and connection with fans, making them a beloved underdog in the world of rugby.
5) Cleveland Indians (Major League Baseball)
The Cleveland Indians may not have the same star power as other teams in Major League Baseball, but they have a loyal fan base that has stood by them through thick and thin. Despite not winning a World Series title since 1948, the team’s underdog status has only strengthened the bond between fans and players.
6) Golden State Warriors (National Basketball Association)
The Golden State Warriors were once considered a struggling team in the National Basketball Association, but in recent years, they have become a powerhouse in the league. However, their underdog roots and strong connection with fans have not been forgotten, making them a fan favorite even as they continue to dominate on the court.
7) Borussia Dortmund (German Bundesliga)
In a league dominated by powerhouse teams like Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund has managed to create a strong and loyal fan base with their exciting playing style and passionate fan culture. Despite not having the same financial resources as their rivals, the team has consistently challenged for titles and captured the hearts of fans around the world.
8) Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters (Japanese Professional Baseball)
In a country where baseball is the most popular sport, the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters have managed to gain a dedicated fan base despite being a smaller and less successful team compared to others in the league. Their passionate and humble approach to the game has made them a beloved underdog in Japan.
9) Colorado Avalanche (National Hockey League)
The Colorado Avalanche may not be one of the most well-known teams in the National Hockey League, but their passionate fan base has stuck with them through ups and downs. Despite facing financial challenges and a lack of success in recent years, the team’s die-hard fans continue to support them, making them a true underdog in the world of hockey.
10) San Antonio Spurs (National Basketball Association)
The San Antonio Spurs may not have the same flashy and star-studded roster as other teams in the National Basketball Association, but they have consistently been a top-performing team and a fan favorite for their humble and hard-working approach to the game. They may not always be the favorites, but their underdog status has only strengthened their connection with fans.
11) Atalanta B.C. (Italian Serie A)
Atalanta B.C. is a small Italian football club that has managed to rise to the top of the Serie A, competing against big-name teams like Juventus and A.C. Milan. Their success on the field and their strong connection with fans have made them a beloved underdog in Italy and beyond.
12) Toronto Raptors (National Basketball Association)
The Toronto Raptors may not have the same star power as other teams in the National Basketball Association, but they have managed to capture the hearts of fans in Canada and beyond with their exciting playing style and passionate fan base. Their underdog status has only made their journey to the top of the league even more inspiring.
The Underdogs: Meet the 39 Most Surprisingly Followed Sports Teams
13) Arizona Diamondbacks (Major League Baseball)
The Arizona Diamondbacks may not be one of the most well-known teams in Major League Baseball, but they have a dedicated fan base that has stuck with them through thick and thin. Despite facing financial challenges and not having the same success as other teams, their underdog status has only strengthened their bond with fans.
14) AC ChievoVerona (Italian Serie A)
Another small Italian football club, AC ChievoVerona has managed to compete in the Serie A against bigger and more well-known teams. Despite not having the same resources, the team’s underdog status and strong connection with fans have made them a beloved underdog in the Italian football scene.
15) Seattle Seahawks (National Football League)
The Seattle Seahawks may not be one of the most glamorous teams in the National Football League, but their passionate fan base has remained loyal to them through ups and downs. Despite not having the same success as other teams in recent years, their underdog status has only strengthened their bond with fans.
16) Burnley F.C. (English Premier League)
Burnley F.C. is a small English football club that has managed to stay in the Premier League against all odds. Despite being one of the smallest clubs in the league, they have a dedicated fan base that has supported them through their journey, making them a true underdog in the world of football.
17) Edmonton Oilers (National Hockey League)
The Edmonton Oilers may not be one of the most well-known teams in the National Hockey League, but they have a loyal fan base that has stood by them through tough times. Despite not having the same success as other teams, their underdog status has only strengthened their bond with fans.
18) Baltimore Orioles (Major League Baseball)
The Baltimore Orioles may not be one of the most successful teams in Major League Baseball, but their dedicated fan base has stuck with them through thick and thin. Despite not winning a World Series title since 1983, their underdog status has only strengthened their connection with fans.
19) Leicester Tigers (Rugby)
The Leicester Tigers are a rugby union team that has consistently been a top-performing team in the English Premiership. Despite not having the same resources as other teams, their underdog status and passionate fan base have made them a beloved team in the world of rugby.
20) Utah Jazz (National Basketball Association)
The Utah Jazz may not be one of the most well-known teams in the National Basketball Association, but their loyal fan base has remained dedicated to them through tough times. Despite not having the same star power as other teams, their underdog status has only strengthened their connection with fans.
21) Gamba Osaka (Japanese Professional Football)
Gamba Osaka is a small Japanese football club that has managed to compete in the J1 League against bigger and more well-known teams. Despite facing financial challenges, their passionate fan base and underdog status have made them a beloved team in Japan.
22) Colorado Rockies (Major League Baseball)
The Colorado Rockies may not be one of the most successful teams in Major League Baseball, but they have a dedicated fan base that has stuck with them through tough times. Despite not winning a World Series title since their debut in 1993, their underdog status has only strengthened their bond with fans.
23) Oakland Raiders (National Football League)
The Oakland Raiders may not be one of the most glamorous teams in the National Football League, but their passionate fan base has remained loyal to them through ups and downs. Despite not having the same success as other teams, their underdog status has only strengthened their bond with fans.
24) Sassuolo Calcio (Italian Serie A)
Sassuolo Calcio is a small Italian football club that has managed to compete in the Serie A against bigger and more well-known teams. Despite not having the same resources, their underdog status and strong connection with fans have made them a beloved team in the Italian football scene.
25) Minnesota Wild (National Hockey League)
The Minnesota Wild may not be one of the most well-known teams in the National Hockey League, but they have a loyal fan base that has stood by them through tough times. Despite not having the same success as other teams, their underdog status has only strengthened their bond with fans.
26) Leicester Riders (British Basketball League)
The Leicester Riders are a professional basketball team in the British Basketball League, known for their successful track record and passionate fan base. Despite not having the same resources as other teams, their underdog status and close connection with fans have made them a beloved team in the UK.
27) Sacramento Kings (National Basketball Association)
The Sacramento Kings may not be one