Introduction and Purpose: Predicting spectators’ behavioral intentions through perceived value represents a novel approach in analyzing sports consumer behavior. By focusing on the audience’s subjective perceptions, this framework enables the design of effective strategies for attracting, retaining, and enhancing engagement with sporting events. The purpose of this study is to examine the mediating role of overall satisfaction and emotional satisfaction in the relationship between perceived value and behavioral intentions of football spectators.
Methodology: This research is applied in nature and employs a correlational design with a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. The statistical population consisted of spectators present at Azadi Stadium during the 2017–2018 season. A non-random, voluntary sampling method was used, resulting in a sample size of 383 participants. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires: Perceived Value (Luskiu & McDougall, 1996), Overall Satisfaction (Lourie & Arnett, 2000), Emotional Satisfaction (Reynolds & Beatty, 1999), Intention to Re-attend and Word-of-Mouth (Carroll, 2009), and Willingness to Pay More (Zeithaml et al., 1996). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS and Smart PLS software.
Findings: The results indicated that perceived value indirectly affects behavioral intentions through emotional satisfaction in a statistically significant manner. Based on the VAF index, emotional satisfaction mediates 48% of the relationship between perceived value and behavioral intentions. In contrast, overall satisfaction did not show a significant mediating effect in this relationship.
Conclusion: Emotional satisfaction plays a crucial role in shaping the behavioral tendencies of football spectators. It is recommended that sports managers and marketers implement strategies that enhance emotional satisfaction among spectators to strengthen their behavioral engagement and loyalty.