Yodel When You’re Winning: Football and the Alps

In "Yodel When You're Winning," Aly Mir has crafted a remarkable cultural expedition that masterfully weaves together two seemingly disparate passions: the beautiful game and the majestic Alps. Following his well-received debut, "Ten Big Ears: An Alternative Account of FC Barcelona in Europe," Mir demonstrates his ability to find compelling narratives in unexpected places.
This groundbreaking work stands as the first English-language exploration of football across all eight Alpine nations, offering readers a unique vantage point that extends far beyond the typical stadium experience. The games covered range from Champions League finals to intimate mountain village fixtures, painting a comprehensive picture of football culture in these mountainous regions.
Mir's ability to recognise the extraordinary in the ordinary is what distinguishes this book. His account of hiking to Europe's highest permanent football stadium at 6,300 feet isn't just about the destination—it's about the journey, the people, and the passion that drives fans to such extremes. The author's description of an Austrian team celebrating victory by plunging into glacial meltwater captures the unique spirit of Alpine football culture, where traditional mountain life intersects with the modern sport.
The narrative is enriched by a diverse chorus of voices, from players and club administrators to cultural figures and local politicians. These perspectives add depth to the exploration of issues ranging from ultras' behaviour to the environmental impact of the sport in these sensitive mountain ecosystems. Mir's investigation into how high altitude affects player performance adds a fascinating scientific dimension to the sporting narrative.
Perhaps the book's greatest strength lies in its ability to transcend the conventional sports narrative. It's not just about match results and statistics—it's a love letter to both football and the Alps, examining how geography, culture, and sport intertwine to create something uniquely beautiful. The story of tiny Thun's Champions League adventure serves as a perfect metaphor for the book itself: a reminder that the most compelling stories in football often come from unexpected places.
While the book maintains a light, accessible tone, it never shies away from addressing serious issues, particularly regarding environmental concerns and the changing nature of mountain communities. Mir's approach is both celebratory and contemplative, offering readers a chance to reflect on the future of football in these pristine but fragile environments.
"Yodel When You're Winning" is an essential read not just for football enthusiasts, but for anyone interested in how sport can serve as a lens through which to view culture, community, and landscape. It's a reminder that sometimes the most interesting stories in football happen far from the spotlight of the major leagues, in places where the mountains meet the pitch.
The book succeeds in its ambitious goal of documenting twenty years of Alpine football while maintaining a sense of wonder and discovery throughout. It's a testament to how sports journalism can transcend its traditional boundaries to become something more: a work of cultural exploration, environmental consciousness, and pure storytelling joy.
Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐ Perfect for: sports enthusiasts, travel lovers, and anyone who appreciates the intersection of culture and athletics. The book offers a fresh perspective on football that goes well beyond the typical match reports and statistics, making it accessible even to those who might not consider themselves hardcore football fans.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 Delivered to You Last Week, July 2025 
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Published: July 21, 2025
Price: £16.99
Paperback: 272 pages
ISBN-10: 183680153X
ISBN-13: 978-1836801535
Dimensions: 216 x 138 (mm)