Rangers and Celtic, two of Scotland's premier football clubs, have achieved remarkable financial milestones in 2024, as highlighted in UEFA's latest report. Rangers have secured their spot among Europe's top 20 clubs for gate revenue, boasting an impressive €53 million (£44.4 million). Meanwhile, Celtic have demonstrated robust financial health, ranking among the top 10 clubs in Europe for pre-tax profits and among the top 20 for kit and merchandising revenue. These achievements are bolstered by a broader financial upswing across Scottish football, which has seen a 14% increase in total club revenues.
The Scottish football scene continues to thrive, with Rangers and Celtic at the forefront of this success. Rangers' gate revenue has witnessed a 47% rise over the past five years, reflecting their consistent ability to sell out season ticket allocations. In parallel, Celtic's financial strength is attributed to their effective player trading model. The construction of New Edmiston House is expected to further boost Rangers' gate revenues, cementing their financial growth trajectory.
Rangers' Financial Growth
Rangers' ascent in gate revenue is noteworthy, with figures climbing from €15 million (£12.6 million) in 2014 to a staggering €53 million (£44.4 million) in 2024. This 47% increase over five years highlights the club's growing popularity and effective revenue generation strategies. The consistent sell-out of season tickets over the past decade underscores the club's strong fanbase and commercial appeal.
The planned construction of New Edmiston House is poised to further enhance Rangers' financial standing. This development will increase gate revenues throughout the season, allowing for more fans to experience live matches. UEFA's report corroborates this trend, noting that "gate revenues continue to grow, with general crowds up six percent on pre-pandemic levels and premium seating driving ticketing growth."
Celtic's Financial Acumen
Celtic's impressive financial performance in 2024 is anchored by their strong player trading model. The club recorded a pre-tax profit of €21 million (£17.6 million), although this marks a decrease from the previous year's figure of €47 million (£39.3 million). Despite this dip, Celtic remains among the top 10 clubs in Europe for pre-tax profits.
Celtic's prowess extends beyond player trading, as evidenced by their position among the top 20 European clubs for kit and merchandising revenue, amounting to €35 million (£29.3 million). UEFA highlights the broader trend, stating:
"Clubs are increasingly benefitting from their global fanbases and a greater commercial focus. For the top 20, merchandising revenues increased 26 per cent and kit manufacturer deals six per cent in 2024 to reach a combined €1.8bn (£1.5bn)." – UEFA
Broader Scottish Football Landscape
The financial success of Rangers and Celtic is emblematic of a wider upward trend in Scottish football finances. The country experienced a 14% increase in total club revenues in 2024, amounting to €357 million (£299 million). This growth places Scotland 11th overall in Europe for total revenue.
Scotland's position as a significant player in European football is further demonstrated by its seventh-place standing in gate receipts, totaling €130 million (£109 million) across the nation. Additionally, domestic TV revenue saw a substantial 20% increase, reaching €32 million (£26.8 million).
Scottish clubs collectively boast a total net equity of €269 million (£225.2 million), with only two clubs experiencing negative equity. This financial stability highlights the robust health of Scottish football and its increasing prominence on the European stage.
UEFA's report comments on the burgeoning financial landscape:
"Gate revenues continue to grow, with general crowds up six percent on pre-pandemic levels and premium seating driving ticketing growth. Dutch, Swiss, Belgian and Scottish clubs are the next highest earners outside of the big five leagues." – UEFA
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