FIFA posts record revenues for 2019/2022, predicts better for next rights cycle

Football’s global governing body FIFA has released its annual report for 2022, which shows that it achieved record breaking revenue of $7.6 billion during the 2019-2022 cycle – a period culminating with the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Looking ahead, FIFA expects the equivalent figure to $11 billion for the 2023-2026 period.

Commenting, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, said: “The resounding success of the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar has been key to the organisation’s ability to fulfil its mission in relation to our member associations and the world of football, despite the multiple challenges we faced during the past cycle, not least the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Broadcast revenues continued to be the key driver for the federation in the run up to Qatar. Of the $7.6bn total, $3.4bn came from broadcast deals (45%). The balance was primarily generated from sponsorship and licensing/merchandising revenues.

The boost for the next cycle is explained by a few factors. Firstly, the expansion in the number of competing teams at the event – from 32 to 48. Secondly, the fact that it is being hosted the US, Canada and Mexico – which has attracted the interest of both broadcasters and sponsors. Finally, a more robust financial strategy for women’s football, which has its World Cup coming up this year in Australia and New Zealand.