The Economic Reality of Football in the Context of Regulatory Frameworks

Title: The Economic Reality of Football in the Context of Regulatory Frameworks Objectives: The primary objective of this study is to produce a publication that serves as an introductory overview of football economics, with a particular focus on the role and potential impact of regulatory mechanisms. Methods: The research employed a mixed-method approach, combining comparative analysis, descriptive methodology, and in-depth qualitative interviews. The scope of analysis encompassed the global football industry, with a specific emphasis on the Czech football sector. Results: The findings underscore the complexity of interactions among stakeholders operating within the football ecosystem. The study provides a detailed examination of the financial structures of football clubs and explores viable regulatory instruments. Based on the data collected, eight specific policy recommendations were formulated to support the sustainable development of both Czech and international football. Keywords: football, regulation, FIFA, UEFA, FAČR, LFA, football club economics, licensing regulations, football accounting, sports policy