Real Madrid overtakes Man City as highest revenue-generating club

Real Madrid surpassed Manchester City as the world’s highest revenue-generating club. Real Madrid’s total revenue reached an impressive 831 million euros ($907.78 million), marking their return to the leadership position for the first time since the 2017-18 season. Following closely were Manchester City with 826 million euros and Paris St Germain with 802 million euros.

Barcelona experienced a significant climb from seventh place last year to fourth, generating 800 million euros, while Manchester United slipped to fifth with revenues of 746 million euros. Real Madrid’s notable increase in revenue, up by 118 million euros from the previous year, can be attributed to robust retail performance, higher stadium attendance, and the recovery of sponsorship income.

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Despite Manchester City relinquishing their two-year hold on the top spot, the club reported its highest-ever revenue for a season, boosted by a successful treble-winning campaign that significantly increased broadcast and commercial revenues. Notably, commercial revenue emerged as the primary income stream for clubs, marking the first time since the 2015-16 season (excluding the COVID-19 impacted 2019-20 season), as broadcast revenue saw a modest 5% increase.

Tim Bridge, the lead partner in Deloitte’s Sports Business Group, emphasized the growing importance of commercial and matchday revenues, noting that a strong demand for live sports is indicative of further growth. As clubs navigate a landscape where exponential broadcast revenue growth is no longer guaranteed, a shift towards a more commercially focused business model is seen as essential for achieving greater control over financial stability.