The Budget of Olympique de Marseille

Olympique de Marseille, often referred to as OM, is one of the most iconic football clubs in France. For the 2023-2024 season, this club has been ranked 2nd in terms of the highest budget among Ligue 1 clubs. Let’s take a tour of the organization’s stands to understand the budgetary strategy that fuels the OM spectacle.

The Organization of Olympique de Marseille

Based in the vibrant city of Marseille, this club was founded in 1899 and is one of the most popular clubs in France. OM plays its matches at the large and famous Stade Vélodrome considered to be the beating heart of Marseille. The team participates in national and European competitions such as Ligue 1 which is the French Championship, the Coupe de France, the Champions League, the Europa League, and the Champions Trophy. OM has won many titles, including the UEFA Champions League in 1993 and occupied 2nd place in Ligue 1 in the 2019-2020 season. The club has enjoyed beautiful seasons of glory for years and today it continues to play a central role in French football with a rich heritage and a passionate and loyal fan base.

The distribution of the budget of Olympique de Marseille

In 2024, the budget of Olympique de Marseille amounts to 270 million euros, an amount that places it among the richest clubs in France, just after PSG which remains by far the club with the highest budget (700 million euros in 2024).
OM's budget is used to cover player and staff salaries, player transfers, infrastructure including training centers as well as travel costs for away matches, competition-related expenses and other operational costs such as promotion, merchandising, administrative costs and training costs for young talents.
OM's salaries vary depending on recruitment and departures and can amount to around 90 to 100 million euros per year. Salaries represent almost half of the total budget including not only fixed salaries but also performance bonuses, signing bonuses, etc. Social charges being very high in France, they also constitute a significant cost for the club.

Olympique de Marseille's sources of income

OM generates diversified revenues that are essential for its operation and competitiveness. Television rights constitute a major part of the club's budget, with revenues coming from the broadcasting of Ligue 1 matches as well as European competitions. Ticket revenues also add significant funds, particularly for matches at the Stade Vélodrome where OM attracts a large number of supporters. Commercial partners and sponsors contribute significantly, with sponsorship contracts for shirts and advertising agreements that increase the visibility of the club. In addition, merchandising constitutes another crucial source of revenue, with sales of derivative products such as shirts and accessories.

Olympique de Marseille, being a top-level club, is subject to rigorous financial management to support its sporting ambitions. However, it is worth asking how OM plans to manage its budget in 2025 to optimize both its sporting performance and its financial stability.