The FIFA World Cup 2026 is not only expected to be the biggest sporting spectacle on the planet, but also one of the events with the greatest economic impact in recent history. According to a report prepared by Swiss bank UBS, the tournament, which kicks off this Thursday, could generate around US$41 billion for global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), driven by an estimated audience of 6 billion people—equivalent to three out of every four inhabitants on Earth.
Beyond the action on the pitch, the study highlights how football has evolved into a global industry whose influence extends far beyond sports. The growth of audiences, the expansion of commercial rights, and the interest of investors worldwide have transformed the sport into a major economic asset capable of mobilizing resources, creating jobs, and stimulating multiple productive sectors.
Football as a Global Economic Engine
The UBS analysis emphasizes that football is undergoing a period of profound transformation. With hundreds of millions of participants and a fan base that spans every continent, the sport has developed an increasingly sophisticated business model where media companies, sponsors, digital platforms, tourism, and entertainment converge.
The scale of the World Cup amplifies this phenomenon. Each edition generates a multiplier effect across various industries, from hospitality and transportation to retail and technology services. The tournament’s ability to capture the attention of billions of people simultaneously makes it a unique platform for brand promotion, investment attraction, and economic activity on a global scale.
Financial Growth Drives New Forms of Investment
The report also highlights the economic strength of professional football. The 20 highest-revenue clubs in the world generated a record €12.4 billion during the 2024/25 season, representing an 11% year-over-year increase. This growth reflects the steady rise in commercial revenues, the increasing value of broadcasting rights, and the growing internationalization of leading sports institutions.
At the same time, club ownership structures have undergone a significant evolution. UBS notes a growing presence of institutional capital, investment funds, and strategic minority stakes, accompanied by increasingly complex financial models. This environment has made football an increasingly attractive sector for economic stakeholders seeking opportunities in an industry with global growth potential and an emotional connection that is difficult to replicate in other markets.
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