Jose Sanchez
Research expert covering society, economy, & politics for Latin America
Soccer - statistics & facts
Whether you call it soccer or football, the beautiful game is undoubtedly one of the world’s most beloved sports. While the modern game can trace its origins back to Victorian England, the activity of kicking a ball around for sport transcends continents and stretches back centuries. Today, soccer is followed by billions of people worldwide, with competitions like the UEFA Champions League generating billions in revenue. The sport is not just a men’s phenomenon however, with the most recent FIFA Women’s World Cup attracting larger crowds than ever before.
How much revenue does FIFA generate?
As the global governing body for soccer, FIFA is one of the most important organizations in world sport, with its revenue for 2024 amounting to over 480 million U.S. dollars. In addition to running international and club competitions, FIFA awards a number of individual accolades, including the Puskás Award for the best goal. The list of Puskás Award winners does not exclusively feature names from the Big Five leagues however, with winners in recent years playing for teams in Poland, Brazil, and Hungary.
Who are the best soccer teams in the world?
At international level, the countries with the most Women’s World Cup titles differ from the men’s. Despite a disappointing campaign in 2023, the United States still leads the way with four titles. Meanwhile, Brazil still holds the record for the most men’s World Cup titles, despite not having lifted the trophy in over 20 years. At club level, men’s soccer is dominated by the Big Five, who collectively have more resources and followers than any other grouping of leagues. As of 2025, the club with the highest revenue worldwide was Real Madrid, at more than a billion euros. With a squad filled with some of the best players in soccer, Real Madrid’s position among the elite looks secure for years to come.
