FOX Sports Partners with Harvard for Fandom Research
FOX Sports is expanding its research into the power and significance of fandom through a new partnership with Harvard Kennedy School. The initiative, called the Fandom and Social Connection Initiative, aims to advance the understanding of fandom’s impact and scientific basis.
The announcement, made today, May 11, 2026, highlights FOX Sports’ continued dedication to exploring the value of fandom. The collaboration will involve research conducted jointly by FOX Sports and Harvard Kennedy School, leveraging expertise from both institutions.
Details regarding the specific research projects and timeline are not yet available, but FOX Sports emphasized its commitment to using data-driven insights to better understand the evolving landscape of fandom. This initiative builds upon existing efforts by FOX Sports to analyze and interpret fan behavior, aiming to provide a deeper understanding of the role fandom plays in society and culture. The initiative’s location spans New York, NY and Cambridge, MA, reflecting the involvement of both organizations' headquarters.


