The uncertain Financial Future of Liga F and the Quiniela
Initial projections suggested that Liga F’s inclusion in the Quiniela would significantly boost the competition’s finances.However, the government’s proposed distribution model, which allocates funds based on the number of women’s matches featured, threatens to severely limit Liga F’s potential earnings.
The current legal framework, established by the 2022 Sports Law, mandates that lottery revenue be divided between provincial councils (49.95%),LaLiga (45.5%), and the RFEF (4.55%). While the new legislation includes Liga F as a recipient of the 45.5% allocated to football, it fails to specify how this sum will be shared between the men’s and women’s leagues.
Based on the 2023 General State Budgets, Liga F could have potentially received up to 10 million euros if the distribution were split equally between LaLiga and itself, a proposition championed by the Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE).
However,the government’s draft royal decree proposes a distribution model that directly correlates with the number of matches from each league included in the Quiniela.This approach disadvantages Liga F, as its limited number of matches compared to LaLiga’s extensive schedule would result in a significantly smaller share of the revenue.
The exact number of Liga F matches included in the Quiniela will be persistent at the start of each season by the State Lottery and Betting society (SELAE).Assuming one match per day of Liga F is included, totaling 30 matches, and considering the approximate 800 matches from LaLiga’s First and Second Divisions, Liga F’s earnings would fall short of one million euros, assuming the total distribution remains at 20.5 million euros.
This news is notably concerning given Liga F’s projected revenue for the 2024/25 season, which is expected to exceed 15 million euros, a considerable increase from the 12 million euros generated two years ago.
Currently, Liga F lacks a title sponsor, and recent reports suggest that the league’s governing body is open to exploring investment from private capital funds to secure its financial future. The outcome of the Quiniela distribution debate will undoubtedly have a notable impact on Liga F’s ability to grow and thrive in the coming years.
The Future of Liga F: A Divided House? An Interview With Marta Torrejón
The quiniela, Spain’s beloved football lottery, is about to welcome Liga F, but a shadow of uncertainty hangs over the potential windfall. A goverment-proposed distribution model based on the number of matches featured threatens to leave Liga F with a significantly smaller slice of the pie compared to the men’s LaLiga. To weigh in on this crucial debate, we sit down with legendary Spanish footballer Marta Torrejón, a staunch advocate for the growth and advancement of women’s football.
Moderator: Marta, thanks for joining us. The inclusion of Liga F in the quiniela was initially heralded as a game-changer. Are you disheartened by the proposed distribution model?
Marta Torrejón: Absolutely. It feels like a missed opportunity. The quiniela has the potential to be a massive source of revenue for Liga F, allowing us to invest in infrastructure, academy programs, and player salaries. But tying the distribution to the number of matches played disadvantages us straight away.
Moderator: You’re referring to the fact that Liga F has fewer matches than LaLiga, right?
Marta Torrejón: Exactly.It’s a catch-22 situation. We’re working hard to increase the visibility and competitiveness of the league, but we need financial backing to do so. This model perpetuates the cycle of underinvestment and limits our growth potential.
moderator: The Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE) has proposed an equal split of the football revenues between LaLiga and Liga F. Do you think that’s a fairer solution?
Marta Torrejón: I wholeheartedly agree with the AFE.An equal split would be a testament to the government’s commitment to gender equality in sport. It sends a powerful message that women’s football deserves equal investment and recognition.
Moderator: How would this impact Liga F in the long run?
Marta Torrejón: It would be transformative. We could finally compete on a level playing field with other top European leagues. We could attract and retain world-class talent, further elevating the quality of the league. This, in turn, would attract more sponsors and fans, creating a virtuous cycle of growth.
moderator: Some argue that Liga F needs to earn its place at the table by generating more revenue thru sponsorship and broadcasting deals. What are your thoughts on that?
Marta Torrejón: While it’s true that we need to build sustainable revenue streams, we can’t ignore the systemic advantages that LaLiga has enjoyed for decades.We’re playing catch-up, and without adequate support, it’s an uphill battle. this is not about handouts; it’s about creating a fairer playing field where women’s football can thrive.
Moderator: The debate around quiniela distribution is crucial for the future of Liga F. What message do you have for our readers?
Marta Torrejón: The time for action is now. We need to rally behind Liga F, demand fairness and equal opportunities.This isn’t just about football; it’s about social progress and equality. Let’s show the world that Spain is a leader in supporting women’s sports.
What are your thoughts on the proposed quiniela distribution model? Join the conversation and let us know your views in the comments below!
