Record Revenue in Global Football

For the first time in history, the combined revenue of the top 20 football clubs worldwide has exceeded €12 billion, reaching approximately €12.4 billion, according to the 29th edition of the Deloitte Football Money League. This represents a nearly 11% increase compared to the 2023/24 season, driven by record performance in key revenue streams: sponsorships and commercial deals, stadium revenue and broadcasting rights.

LaLiga Dominates, But Distance Remains

Real Madrid tops the global ranking of club revenues, solidifying its position as the highest-earning entity in world football. Even as the club experienced a 6% decrease in matchday revenue, it balanced this with a 23% increase in commercial income. Expansion of merchandising and new strategic agreements boosted this area to €594 million.

FC Barcelona secures the second position with nearly €1 billion in revenue, demonstrating its financial recovery. According to the report, Barcelona’s revenue reaches €974.8 million.

Key Players in the Top Five

Following the Spanish giants, the top five is completed by FC Bayern Munich (€861 million), Paris Saint-Germain (€837 million), and Liverpool FC (€836 million). Liverpool achieves leadership within the United Kingdom for the first time, benefiting from its return to the UEFA Champions League and sustained financial base.

Atlético Madrid’s Growth

Atlético de Madrid as well improves its figures, with a revenue of €454.5 million, representing a 10.4% increase compared to the previous year.

Commercial Revenue Leads the Way

Commercial revenue continues to be the primary pillar of income in the Deloitte Football Money League, reaching €5.3 billion and representing 43% of the total aggregate. This growth is fueled by intensified branding strategies, optimized sponsorship agreements, and enhanced merchandising performance.

Stadiums as Business Hubs

Stadiums have evolved beyond game days, becoming year-round business centers with events, premium experiences, and ancillary zone exploitation. For the top ten clubs, this area represents nearly half of their overall revenue.

Broadcasting Rights Remain Strong

Broadcasting rights experienced a more moderate growth of 1%, but still account for 38% of total revenue. The slight increase was favored by the expansion of the FIFA Club World Cup and the growth of continental competitions organized by UEFA.

Deloitte Restructuring

Deloitte is investing €1.5 billion in EMEA over four years, as part of a restructuring plan approved by partners in each country. This new structure will encompass 80 countries in Europe and the Middle East, and will be led by Richard Houston, senior partner of the UK.

Financial Times Deloitte ha lanzado una profunda renovación de su estructura internacional, uniendo sus negocios en Europa y Oriente Medio en 80 países.

FAQ

What is the Deloitte Football Money League?

It’s an annual report by Deloitte that ranks football clubs based on their revenue.

Which club topped the Deloitte Football Money League in 2026?

Real Madrid topped the ranking.

What is driving revenue growth in football?

Sponsorships, commercial deals, stadium revenue, and broadcasting rights are the main drivers.