Thirty seven per cent of people interviewed by LG would buy a 3D TV to watch the Olympics, but the figure drops to 25 per cent when asked whether the European Championships would be a motivating factor.

The preference for the Olympics could be due to England's recent poor performances in major tournaments, as well as doubts over whether other Home Nations will qualify for Euro 2012.

Currently only the Republic of Ireland look on course to join England in Ukraine and Poland next summer, and of course they are not a part of the UK.

Added to that is the fact that the Olympics represent a unique sporting moment for the UK, hosting the event for the first time since London was the venue for the 1948 Games.

More than 2,000 people were surveyed by LG, with over half saying that their next TV would be 3D, but a quarter of those interviewed had not seen a 3D movie in a cinema.

The irony of the findings is that it may be that neither tournament will be broadcast on free-to-air 3D TV in the UK, or that action will be filmed for 3D TV, but only to be shown in cinemas and sports venues.

Neither the BBC or ITV are planning to show 3D TV, though it is still possible that the BBC will show some events through its red button service.

Only BSkyB has a dedicated 3D channel at present.

Stephen Gater, LG's CE marketing director said: "With almost two thirds of people saying that they're looking to upgrade their TVs ahead of next year's sporting events it's a really exciting time for LG.

"We strongly believe in the real benefits that our unique Cinema 3D TV range brings to consumer's homes."

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