UEFA To Up Champions League Prize Money As Need For Income Increases In FFP Era

Champions League clubs' share of billion-dollar annual prize money "is set to rise through 2018 as their need for income increases in the 'Financial Fair Play' era," according to the AP. The agency marketing Champions League rights on behalf of UEFA said on Monday that clubs will be "happy" with their increase. Switzerland-based Team Marketing is currently selling broadcast and sponsorship deals for the '15-18 seasons, "which follow existing three-year deals" worth €1.34B ($1.8B) annually. Team Marketing Dir Martin Wagner said, "It is a fantastic time '15-18, we will generate growth and we will see happy clubs with the results." The 32 clubs playing in this season's Champions League "will share at least" €900M ($1.2B) in UEFA prize money. Champions League income is key for elite clubs trying to meet UEFA's "Financial Fair Play" rules. Wagner: "The unique model of the Champions League is it's the mass (audience), you get the numbers. Everybody needs premium content" (AP, 10/30).