Professional football in Germany generated record revenues exceeding six billion euros for the first time in the 2024/25 season, according to the DFL (Deutsche Fußball Liga) Business Report released Monday.
The 36 clubs and capital companies across the Bundesliga and second division posted combined revenues of €6.33 billion ($6.68bn) – up €461.2m from 2023/24, an increase of almost 8 percent. The league reported an operating profit of €271.5m across professional football.
The 18 clubs and capital companies of the Bundesliga broke the five billion euro threshold for the first time, reaching €5.12bn – a 6.7 percent increase over the previous season. Second division clubs posted revenues of €1.21bn, up 13.1 percent.
More clubs turn profitable
Profitability improved significantly across both divisions. Thirteen first-division and 15 second-division clubs posted positive results, compared to nine and eight respectively in the prior season.
On an EBITDA basis (before interest, taxes and depreciation), all 18 Bundesliga clubs and 16 of 18 second-division clubs closed with positive balances. Bundesliga equity capital exceeded two billion euros for the first time, reaching €2.17bn, with all 18 clubs showing positive equity.
In its communiqué, the German Football League highlighted that it contributed nearly €1.7bn in taxes and social contributions during the season.
Employment hits record high
Total employment reached 64,122 people working directly or indirectly for clubs and their subsidiaries – an increase of 2,395 positions, or 3.9 per cent year-on-year.
Strong stadium attendance contributed to the financial performance, with almost 21 million tickets sold during the 2024/25 season – a record high. Revenue growth also came from increased media rights and advertising income.
Source: Bundesliga.com
