Podcast: Subbuteo Culture

My guest is Derek Air, whose book Land of the Giants explores Subbuteo culture. We’re talking ahead of the Subbuteo World Cup 2024, hosted in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, England, where the game was invented. 

In this episode, we cover:

The Evolution of Subbuteo: We discussed how Subbuteo has evolved from a childhood game to a highly skilled sport, with modern versions played on Astroturf with flat bases, differing significantly from the original game.

Subculture and Community: We explored the rich subculture surrounding Subbuteo, including enthusiasts who meticulously paint teams, build replica stadiums, and collect rare items, contributing to a dedicated global community.

Resurgence and Collecting: We highlighted the role of dedicated collectors and small groups who kept Subbuteo alive after its production stopped in the early 2000s, sparking a resurgence in recent years.

Rare Collectibles: We delved into the world of Subbuteo collectors, discussing the most sought-after items, such as the rare “World of Sport” box set and other valuable memorabilia.

Impact of COVID-19: We noted how the COVID-19 lockdowns significantly boosted interest in Subbuteo, with prices for rare items skyrocketing and a surge in new collectors joining the community.

Online Culture: We examined the vibrant online culture around Subbuteo, particularly on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, while also noting the more toxic atmosphere that can exist in some Facebook groups.

International Competitions: We discussed the organisation of Subbuteo competitions, including the upcoming World Cup in Tunbridge Wells, where England is expected to field a strong team due to the revitalised club culture.

Club Culture: We explored the dynamics of different Subbuteo clubs, with a particular focus on Leicester’s unique, cooperative approach to club management, which contrasts with more hierarchical structures in other clubs.

Women and Youth in Subbuteo: We acknowledged the growing, though still small, presence of women and younger players in the Subbuteo community, with a notable mention of Ruby Matthews, a promising junior player.

Upcoming Projects: We shared insights into upcoming publications, including Derek’s new coffee table book showcasing the best of Subbuteo’s artistic and collecting community, aiming to reach a broader audience.

If you’re interested in table football, please listen to my podcast with Stephen Hurrell on the history of Subbuteo.

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