Real Madrid has once again cemented its status as the global benchmark in footballing wealth and influence. For the fourth straight year—and the ninth time in the last twelve editions—Forbes has crowned the Spanish powerhouse as the most valuable football club in the world. With a staggering valuation of $6.75 billion, a 2% rise from the previous year, the club continues to redefine excellence both on and off the pitch.
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A Billion-Dollar Benchmark: Real Madrid Makes History
The 2023–24 campaign wasn’t just memorable for Real Madrid fans due to another UEFA Champions League triumph; it also marked a historic financial milestone. The club generated $1.13 billion in revenue, becoming the first football institution to breach the billion-dollar revenue mark in a single year.
Forbes highlights the fact that Real Madrid enjoyed revenues of 1.13 billion dollars in the 2023/24 season, making them the first football team ever to break the 1 billion dollar mark.
This feat places them in an elite category shared only with the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, who achieved similar revenue figures in 2021 and escalated to $1.2 billion by 2023. Among football clubs, Manchester City comes closest, with $901 million in revenue during the same season.
Global Appeal and Silverware Drive Valuation
The latest Forbes report credits much of Real Madrid’s rising value to its global branding, commercial strength, and competitive consistency.
The magazine also underlines Real Madrid’s Champions League win in 2023/24, as well as the club’s international appeal and commercial partnerships.
Los Blancos continue to attract lucrative sponsorships and strategic partnerships that boost their commercial portfolio. From multi-national brands to region-specific campaigns, Real Madrid’s influence extends far beyond Spanish borders, appealing to fans on every continent.
The Bernabéu Effect: Infrastructure Powers Financial Growth
Infrastructural modernization has also played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s economic trajectory. The renovation of the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium promises to elevate matchday experiences and revenue streams alike.
Furthermore, they highlight how, following the completion of the Santiago Bernabéu, the club expects to increase its matchday revenues, including in ticket sales.
With a more dynamic venue capable of hosting concerts, events, and other non-football spectacles, the club is set to turn its stadium into a year-round revenue generator.
Manchester United and Barcelona Follow
Despite Real Madrid’s dominance, close competitors are hot on their heels. Manchester United holds the second spot with a valuation of $6.6 billion, retaining its edge over historic rival Barcelona, which sits third at $5.65 billion.
“But it is the other team from Manchester—Manchester United—that is nearest to Real Madrid with its valuation, at $6.6 billion, maintaining its lead on another Spanish powerhouse, Barcelona, which sits third in the financial standings at $5.65 billion.”
The English Premier League clubs’ global marketability and financial robustness continue to drive their valuations higher each year.
The Top 10: Europe Dominates Financial Rankings
Here’s a look at Forbes’ top ten most valuable football clubs for 2025:
| Rank | Club | Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Real Madrid | $6.75 billion |
| 2 | Manchester United | $6.60 billion |
| 3 | FC Barcelona | $5.65 billion |
| 4 | Liverpool | $5.40 billion |
| 5 | Manchester City | $5.30 billion |
| 6 | Bayern Munich | $5.10 billion |
| 7 | Paris Saint-Germain | $4.60 billion |
| 8 | Arsenal | $3.40 billion |
| 9 | Tottenham Hotspur | $3.30 billion |
| 10 | Chelsea | $3.25 billion |
Football’s Billion-Dollar Ecosystem Expands
Together, the 30 most valuable football clubs now hold a combined worth exceeding $72 billion, averaging $2.4 billion per team—a 5% surge from last year’s benchmark. The geographical distribution highlights the Premier League’s stronghold with 12 representatives, followed by Italy’s Serie A (4 teams), Spain’s La Liga (3), Germany’s Bundesliga (2), and France’s Ligue 1 (1).
Even Major League Soccer finds representation, with LAFC leading North America at a valuation of $1.25 billion, though no MLS club cracks the top ten.
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FAQs
Why did Forbes name Real Madrid the most valuable football club in 2025?
Forbes named Real Madrid the most valuable football club for its $6.75 billion valuation, record-breaking $1.13 billion revenue, and global commercial success.
How many times has Real Madrid topped Forbes’ list of most valuable clubs?
Real Madrid has topped Forbes’ list nine times in the last twelve editions, including four consecutive years from 2022 to 2025.
Which football club was the first to earn over $1 billion in revenue in a year?
Real Madrid became the first football club to earn over $1 billion in revenue in a single year during the 2023–24 season.
Who are the top three most valuable football clubs according to Forbes in 2025?
According to Forbes 2025, the top three most valuable football clubs are Real Madrid ($6.75B), Manchester United ($6.6B), and FC Barcelona ($5.65B).
How is Real Madrid expected to increase future revenue?
Real Madrid expects to boost future revenue through its revamped Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, enhancing matchday income and hosting global events.
