European football demonstrated robust financial growth in the 2022/23 season, with revenues climbing by 16 percent to 35.3 billion euros ($37.9 billion), according to Deloitte’s Annual Review of Football Finance.
The “big five” European leagues, comprising the Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Serie A, and Ligue 1, collectively generated 19.6 billion euros in revenue, marking a 14 percent increase from the previous season. This growth also saw these leagues report an aggregate operating profit of 0.5 billion euros, a milestone achievement since the 2018/19 season.
Factors contributing to the revenue surge included the lifting of all Covid-19 restrictions and the excitement generated by the 2022 FIFA World Cup held in Qatar.
The Premier League, renowned for its financial prowess, saw its clubs’ revenues climb by 11 percent, surpassing £6 billion for the first time to reach £6.1 billion ($7.75 billion).
Despite this financial success, net debt in the Premier League increased from £2.7 billion to £3.1 billion, largely due to ongoing investments in infrastructure projects.
The Bundesliga and Serie A experienced the highest percentage growth in club revenues, both recording a substantial 22 percent increase compared to the previous season. Bundesliga clubs amassed a total revenue of 3.8 billion euros, while Serie A clubs collectively earned 2.9 billion euros.
“The 2022 FIFA World Cup, combined with the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, and heightened fan engagement, contributed to the strong growth witnessed in the European football market in 2022/23,” remarked Tim Bridge, lead partner in Deloitte’s Sports Business Group.
However, Bridge cautioned that European football faces challenges ahead, stating, “Football is evolving into a more globally connected sport, presenting new challenges in maintaining competitive balance, robust governance, and effective regulation.”
He emphasized the need for industry leaders to unite in upholding good governance principles to shape a promising future for European football, appealing to fans, players, and partners alike.
Meanwhile, the Women’s Super League (WSL) in England experienced remarkable growth, with revenue soaring by 50 percent to £48 million, buoyed by England’s success at the 2022 Women’s Euros. Forecasts indicate further growth, projecting revenues to rise to £68 million by 2024/25.
Jenny Haskel, knowledge and insight lead in Deloitte’s Sports Business Group, highlighted the WSL clubs’ focus on building a loyal fanbase, enhancing viewership habits, and cultivating distinct commercial partnerships as pivotal to their revenue expansion.
“While significant progress has been made, we acknowledge that the women’s game is still in the early stages of growth,” Haskel noted.
