Premier League Leads as European Football Revenues Surge

In the 2022/23 season, European football saw substantial financial growth, with revenues climbing by 16 percent to reach 35.3 billion euros ($37.9 billion), according to Deloitte's Annual Review of Football Finance.

The collective revenue of Europe's "big five" leagues, including the Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Serie A, and Ligue 1, increased by 14 percent to 19.6 billion euros. This marks the first time since 2018/19 that these leagues reported an aggregate operating profit of 0.5 billion euros.

Contributing to this growth were factors such as the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions and the hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Premier League, specifically, saw an 11 percent revenue boost, surpassing £6 billion for the first time to reach £6.1 billion ($7.75 billion).

Despite this financial upswing, net debt in the Premier League rose from £2.7 billion to £3.1 billion due to increased investments in infrastructure projects.

The Bundesliga and Serie A experienced the most significant average percentage growth, with each league recording a 22 percent increase in total revenue. Bundesliga clubs generated 3.8 billion euros, while Serie A clubs amassed 2.9 billion euros in revenue.

According to Tim Bridge, lead partner in Deloitte's Sports Business Group, "The 2022 FIFA World Cup, the lifting of final Covid-19 restrictions, and the fervour of fans engaging with football has led to strong growth in the European football market in 2022/23."

However, Bridge cautioned that European football faces challenges in maintaining competitive balance and effective governance amid its global expansion.

Meanwhile, the Women's Super League in England experienced a remarkable 50 percent revenue growth, driven in part by England's success at the 2022 Women's Euros. Revenue for WSL clubs reached £48 million and is expected to rise to £68 million by 2024/25.

Jenny Haskel, knowledge and insight lead in Deloitte's Sports Business Group, noted, "Driving a loyal fanbase, habitual viewing, and distinct commercial partnerships was a clear priority for WSL clubs in the 2022/23 season, and the soaring revenue growth achieved demonstrates the strides that have been made."

Despite these gains, Haskel emphasized that the women's game is still in its early stages of growth.

In summary, the 2022/23 season marked a period of significant financial expansion across European football, driven by increased revenues across major leagues and notable growth in the Women's Super League, setting the stage for future developments in the sport.