By Emily Copeland

Scotland’s most beloved sport has been found at the heart of the country’s economy, proving its value far beyond the touchline.

New figures published in a report by the Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde (UoS) working in conjunction with the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL), and the Scottish Football Association (SFA), have revealed the full scale of football’s impact on the national economy.

According to the report, Scottish football contributed £820 million, as well as also supporting 14,315 jobs up and down the country during the 2023-24 season.

At the heart of the economic engine are the league clubs – from the towering Premiership giants to the community-orientated sides across the SPFL and SWPL. Attendances continue to underpin footballs economic force in Scotland.

Celtic and Rangers fans by Visionhaus via Getty Images

Each year more than 6.8 million people attend matches across professional and international matches across Scotland, generating vital spending across matchdays, transport, commercial and other.

The women’s game is also playing an increasingly significant role within Scotland’s football economy with attendances rising, as well as increased commercial investment and the clubs competing more regularly across European competitions. This reflects the overall growth of the women’s game nation-wide.

The Scottish FA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ian Maxwell and SPFL CEO Neil Doncaster, has welcomed these figures and the economic benefits found within the report.

The study found that football was able to support wider social outcomes, especially in disadvantaged communities. Initiatives such as Extra-Time, providing children with breakfast clubs, as well as after-school and activity sessions that has become pivotal for community support and inclusion for all.

An earlier report published in 2020, found that, SPFL clubs and supporter spending contributed £444 million, as well as supporting 9,300 jobs. Just 5 years later, Scotland has seen these figures almost double, sparking positivity among the game and reinforcing the importance to the country’s economy.

Image by Alan Harvey - SNS Group vis Getty Images

The Scottish Government has also welcomed these positive findings with the Department of Culture, Media and Sport awarding the SFA with £8.14 million to allow them to enhance Grassroot sport and football facilities up and down the country, ensuring that football is kept in the heart of the community.

Facilities will benefit from new or replacement artificial surfaces, floodlight improvements, and modernised changing facilities.

Overall, Scottish football is more than just a game – it has become a leading powerful economic force across the country. By contributing £820 million and supporting over 14,000 jobs the sport drives local economies.

From grassroots, to professional to international games, there is something for everyone. Backed by government investment, football continues to go from strength to strength, showing that the beautiful game is not just played on the pitch, it powers communities, jobs, and the economy.

The beautiful game and a booming economy: How Scottish football is driving growth, jobs, and community grassroots.