We often think of football as a game of passion, athleticism, and fierce competition. However, beneath the surface lies a complex financial structure that governs clubs, sponsorships, and investments. On February 20, 2025, the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Antwerp, in collaboration with Capitant, hosted an insightful Business Connect event titled "The Finance Behind Football." The event provided a deep dive into the financial mechanisms driving the football industry and brought together esteemed speakers from media, club management, and investment backgrounds to share their expertise.

A Deep Dive Into Football's Financial Playbook

The panel discussion tackled key questions that transcend the sports industry:

• What does it take to run a football club, and how does it differ from traditional business management?
• Why do top corporations invest in football clubs?
• How do clubs justify staggering transfer fees?
• Should football clubs aim for profitability, and if so, how should they reinvest their financial gains?
• What role do geopolitical factors play in football club ownership?

These discussions span various disciplines, such as marketing, economics, financial markets, and accounting, making the event relevant to students interested in business and finance—not just football fans.

The Lineup: Who Was on the Panel?

The event started with a warm welcome from Dean Prof. Dr. Ann De Schepper and an opening keynote by Prof. Dirk De Corte, setting the stage for a thought-provoking discussion. The panel featured industry experts:

• Dries Bervoet (De Tijd): A seasoned journalist covering finance and business in the sports industry.
• Sven Jaecques (RAFC - Royal Antwerp Football Club): An experienced club executive offering insights into managing a professional football club.
• Luc Hooybergs (KRC Genk): A football management expert with years of experience overseeing club operations and investments.

Their expertise provided a well-rounded perspective on football's financial dynamics, from club management strategies to broader industry trends.

Key Takeaways

One of the major discussion points was the profitability of football clubs. While some argue that football clubs should prioritize financial gains, others see them as community assets rather than purely commercial entities. The debate highlighted the balance clubs must strike between financial sustainability and sporting success. Additionally, the conversation around sponsorships and club investments shed light on why global corporations pour millions into football. The panellists emphasized the emotional power of football, which drives unparalleled brand exposure and fan engagement, making clubs lucrative investment opportunities. Finally, the impact of geopolitical and economic factors on club ownership and transfers was another eye-opening discussion. The shift in football club investments due to external economic conditions showcased the sport’s deep ties to the broader financial world.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are a football fanatic, an aspiring finance professional, or simply curious about how sports and business intersect, The Finance Behind Football proved to be an invaluable experience. Events like these showcase how our university fosters learning beyond the classroom, connecting students with real-world applications of their studies.

If you missed this event, don’t worry—there will be more Business Connect sessions in the future. Be sure to keep an eye on the Faculty of Business and Economics’ event calendar and join us next time for another engaging discussion!

Stay connected, stay informed, and most importantly—stay involved!