The 2023 season of the Brazilian Football League, known as Brasileirão, is nearing its end.
With just four rounds left, the league has seen a remarkable increase in fans attending games.
More than nine million fans have filled the stadiums this year. This number beats last year’s total by nearly a million.
Ticket sales have also soared. They have reached a total of R$ 435 million (approximately $88.78 million). This is 40% more than last year’s earnings.
On average, more than 27,000 fans have attended each game. Teams like Flamengo, São Paulo, and Corinthians have drawn even larger crowds.
Their average attendance is over 30,000 fans per game. These figures are the highest in the league’s history. They surpassed the record set in 1983 of 22,953 fans per game.
Henrique Borges, the CEO of Somos Young, links this increase to fan membership programs.
These programs have become more popular. For example, Palmeiras and São Paulo have seen a big rise in memberships.
These programs offer benefits like early ticket access. This helps increase attendance and brings in steady money for the clubs.
International, another club, shows how effective these programs are. About 63% of its game attendees are club members.
Flamengo with the Largest Fan Base – 2023 Brasileirão
Flamengo, the club with the largest fan base, uses digital solutions for ticket sales. This helps manage the large crowds at Maracanã Stadium.
It also improves the fans’ experience. Clubs are now focusing on attracting families.
Corinthians and Palmeiras, for instance, have created special spaces for all ages at their stadiums.
Alessandro Tomazelli, CEO of Companhia do Tomate, says these efforts make football matches fun for young fans.
Sandro Orlandelli, a member of the UEFA Academy, observes changes in Brazilian football. He notes a higher average of goals scored in games.
The arrival of stars like Suárez, Hulk, and Lucas Moura has raised the game’s level.
The 2023 season is not just about more fans. It also stands out for its high earnings. The league has made about R$ 435 million (approximately $88.78 million) in total.
This is much more than the R$ 307 million (approximately $62.65 million) made last season. Flamengo, São Paulo, and Corinthians are the top earners.
Importance of Fans – 2023 Brasileirão: Record Crowds and Earnings
Rogério Neves, CEO of Motbot, emphasizes the importance of fans. They are key to the club’s financial success.
Their support through ticket purchases and membership programs helps the clubs meet their financial goals. This support can also make up for losses in other budget areas.