French Football Federation Treasurer Denis Trossat announced Saturday that net income for the FFF for the ’13-14 season (July 1, 2013-June 30, 2014) amounted to €267,000 ($332,775), according to the AFP. This is the "fourth consecutive positive net return" for the federation (after €500,000 in ’10-11, €900,000 in ’11-12 and €180,000 in ’12-13). Trossat linked the result to the economic impact of Les Bleus qualifying for the World Cup in Brazil. As such, he "highlighted the ticket revenue which has contributed upward" of €2M in total revenue. Trossat said, “The schedule has been favorable since seven matches were played in France compared to six in the previous season, with the play-off comeback against Ukraine and the friendly matches in preparation for the World Cup.” Trossat stated that “the financial results of the World Cup will be charged to the next fiscal year because Les Bleus path came to a stop in July.” He also said he welcomes “this consistency that translates to a true command of our finances." He added, "The overall situation is good, at balance. Our federation can continue to modernize its tools without undermining the financial support for our leagues and districts. With the common goal to better prepare for the Euro 2016” (AFP, 12/13).
HEIGHTENED INTEREST: SPORT 24 reported the number of football players, leaders, coaches, and referees licensed with the FFF is "on the rise for the second straight year." After reaching a low point in ’12, the number of licensees increased 6.18% in ’14. The FFF now has more than 2 million licensees. While the number of licensed male players has increased by 6.34% over the previous year, "it is the females that had the most notable increase," with a 19.04% jump. In addition, both male and women leaders are "becoming more numerous." The report highlights the “renewed vitality” of football in France, with the federation attributing the figures to the “honorable performance” of the national team during the World Cup. Of concern to the federation was the decline in the number of referees (-1.63%) as well as the number of coaches/educators who hold a certification (-4%) (SPORT 24, 12/13).
