Brand Finance’s latest data highlights the successful strategies of football clubs heavily investing in brand management to capture the $40 billion global sponsorship market.
The global football sponsorship market, valued at $39.3 billion in 2023, is expected to reach $57.9 billion by 2032, with football club brands becoming increasingly valuable assets as companies invest billions in team sponsorships.
“With global football sponsorship projected to approach $58 billion within the next decade, football clubs are enhancing their brand strength and value to secure a share of this lucrative and expanding market.
Brand Finance’s data indicates that a club’s commercial income is closely linked to the strength of its brand, particularly among the top clubs,” says Hugo Hensley, head of sports services at Brand Finance.
The report identifies Real Madrid as the world’s most valuable and strongest football club, ranking above renowned global brands like Google, Coca-Cola, Ferrari, and Rolex.
Manchester City FC holds the second spot, and FC Barcelona remains in third place despite financial difficulties.
Real Madrid’s brand value increased by 16% to €1.7 billion, making it the world’s most valuable football club brand, surpassing Manchester City FC, whose brand value rose by 7% to €1.6 billion, according to Brand Finance’s new data.
With a brand strength index (BSI) score of 96.3/100 and an AAA+ rating, Real Madrid is not only the strongest football club brand but also ranks among the world’s strongest brands.
The club’s exceptional brand strength is attributed to perfect scores across various metrics, including squad investment, stadium quality, and sponsorships.
Strategic investments in star players like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham are expected to further boost Real Madrid’s revenue through increased matchday and merchandise sales, enhancing global visibility and fan engagement.
“Real Madrid’s return to the top of the Brand Finance 2024 Football 50 ranking demonstrates the club’s exceptional brand management. Sponsorship deals like their 8-year megadeal with Adidas reinforce Real Madrid’s status as the most valuable football club brand in the world,” says Hensley.
