UEFA warns Belgium over unsustainable player salaries

File source: SuperSport

UEFA has singled out Belgium for its excessive wage-to-revenue ratio in football, ranking it among the worst in Europe alongside Greece and Turkey. According to UEFA’s latest financial report, Belgian clubs spent 86% of their revenue on wages in 2023, far exceeding the recommended threshold.

The report, which examines the financial health of 745 top clubs across 55 countries, highlights football’s post-pandemic recovery, with revenues reaching a record €26.8 billion in 2023 and projected to surpass €29 billion in 2024. UEFA attributes this growth to foreign investment, a 39% rise in commercial revenues, and a 32% increase in ticket sales. However, it warns that wage inflation threatens financial stability, particularly in Belgium.

Lorin Parys, CEO of the Pro League, acknowledged that Belgian clubs are operating beyond their means and emphasized the need for stricter financial regulations. “This report is the reason why the Pro League is imposing strict rules on the clubs,” said Parys. “We are asking our members to move towards positive equity and a healthy squad spending ratio.” He added that within four years, clubs must limit spending on sporting staff to 70% of their net operating income.

Beyond wage concerns, Belgium is also grappling with soaring operating costs, reporting a loss of €209 million in 2023—the second highest in Europe after France and more than double the losses of the Netherlands or Portugal. UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin has urged clubs to exercise caution, warning that profitability levels have yet to fully recover to pre-pandemic standards.