The English Premier League (EPL) has reported a drop in post-tax profits and a sharp rise in operating expenses for the financial year ending July 31, 2024, amid its ongoing three-year broadcast and commercial rights cycle.
Total turnover for the league reached £3.63 billion, but statutory profit after tax fell to £118.2 million—down markedly from £216.5 million the previous year.
Despite the dip in profit, underlying turnover rose by 4.9%, driven primarily by increases in contracted broadcast revenue. As a result, total assets now stand at £2.718 billion, while funds available for distribution to clubs rose to £2.919 billion from £2.833 billion in 2023. Net cash flow from operating activities also remained strong at £304.9 million.
However, the league saw a 23% rise in operating expenses, attributed to increased staffing, broader football development initiatives, and escalating legal costs—particularly surrounding ongoing cases like that of 2023-24 champions Manchester City.
"Indeed, the EPL's administrative expenses last year – legal fees are housed here in the league's accounts – rose to £200.2 million last season, up significantly from £123.7 million in 2022-23."
The Premier League charged Manchester City with over 130 alleged breaches of financial fair play regulations in early 2023. A hearing by an independent tribunal began in late 2024, meaning the case spanned the entire 2023-24 season.
Additionally, income from finance surged by 85.1%, largely due to higher global interest rates affecting returns on cash reserves.
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