JUST IN; Borussia Dortmund’s journey of €600m

October 8 – A €44 million pay day for reaching the Champions League final saw Borussia Dortmund turnover hit €618.2 million. UEFA payments provided €120.1 million in the 2023/24 financial year.

The figures marked a 24% increase in turnover for the club, boosted by the sale of players that contributed a net gain of €97.9 million, 35% up on the previous year.

“Financially, 2023/24 was an exceptionally successful year for Borussia Dortmund. Revenue was at an all-time high and we broke through the €500 million mark (excluding transfer income) for the first time. On a particularly satisfying note, growth was achieved across all revenue streams,” said a note to the accounts from the Dortmund board.

“This milestone pays testament to our financial strength, and also enables us to make important investments in the club’s future. We have already driven forward key infrastructure investments, and will continue to do so. At the same time, we want our shareholders to participate in our success and we are pleased to announce that we intend to distribute a dividend again.”

The biggest contribution to Dortmund’s revenues came from broadcast that delivered €206.1 million (up 31%) as the club finished fifth in the Bundesliga and qualified for this season’s expanded and higher earning Champions League – the new league system for the competition will see Dortmund play an extra two games in the first round with the added revenue opportunities they bring.

Match day revenues in 2023-24 contributed €52.6 million.

Dortmund also saw a rise in sponsorship and advertising revenues to €147 million – despite fan protests against ‘weapons-washing’ and their club’s controversial sponsorship agreement with Rheinmetall, Germany’s biggest weapons manufacturer. Merchandise sales also increased to €47.9 million, a 43% uplift on the previous year.

The Bundesliga club increased its turnover by 24% to €618.2 million, of which a third came from television. Transfers contributed €97.9 million in net income, while staff costs rose by 14%.

While the club made €97.9 million from player trading salaries still increased by 14%, to more than €268 million. Other operating expenses grew by 46% to about €167 million, attributed to an increase in match day and administrative expenses.

The accounts will now go forward for approval at the club’s annual general meeting on November 25.