Message from the President of Liga Portugal

Preface

Portuguese Professional Football has always been an example since the pandemic forced us to redefine our strategies and behaviors. And now, at a time of confidence and commitment, we will take on our strong goal of continuing to be a beacon for other activities and industries.

Pedro Proença

President of Liga Portugal

These times are of change. Of turning. Of commitment. The last two years have been a demanding test of overcoming the strange reality that the pandemic imposed on us. The economy suffered, the activities were weakened, and the downturn was significant. This happened at all levels and in all areas. Football was no exception, but it bravely kept treading its path. Now the conversation is different.

Speeding up the economic recovery

The hardships showed us how much we are capable of, the example we can be, and how adversities can turn into opportunities. The supporters are back in the stadiums. The industry is back in full swing and there is nothing to be afraid of. Economic growth should be a common goal and more than enough reason to seal new synergies and partnerships. Professional Football is a role model in this matter. With the coldness of numbers, this yearbook shows the power of this industry, even in such an atypical and limited revenue season. The Portuguese Professional Football Sports Societies contributed more than €550 million to the Portuguese Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2020-21. They contributed more than €192 million in taxes. We at Liga Portugal remain ambitious and assume, without any hesitation, the will to be an example and a promoter of investment. The construction of the Liga Portugal Arena, a new headquarters building that will also serve as home to a business incubator, which will be a meeting point for business, training, and reflection, is proof that we are literally on the ground building a promising future. Last season we were connected to more than 3,729 jobs, a number that should increase with the new projects. In politics, too, governmental changes are spurring us to take action. As always. We continue to demand a different view from the political powers towards Football, inviting them to perceive the relevant weight of the industry as a mass phenomenon of immense potential - €1.962 billion of total media exposure in 2020-21. Portuguese Professional Football deserves an audible voice and opinion among the most important reflections. As usual, Liga Portugal is available for dialogue and active participation with the new governing body, counting on the country’s leaders to be allies in the promotion of this activity that we are all passionate about. The future will be what we make of it and we look forward to tomorrow. The centralization model for audiovisual rights will be a new and beneficial reality for all, contributing to the financial health of the Sports Societies and Portuguese Professional Football. This is an achievement of this Board that will also be a turning point, bringing us closer to the goal of being among the best European leagues. A lot is happening and we have so much to do. This game is not over yet!