"The soccer bubble": Interview with Prof. Dr. Faix on sustainability

Axel Faix: I think soccer is also primarily about the three dimensions: economic, social and environmental sustainability. There is a need for action on all three levels, and the good thing is that this is now being recognized and action is being taken. The DFB task force recently took a clear position on the goals of sustainability. It was decided that sustainability in professional soccer must focus on the core business. According to the clubs' annual financial statements as at June 2020, 15 out of 18 premier league clubs have significantly negative results after taxes and five clubs even have negative equity [including Werder Bremen and Schalke 04]. The economic relevance of the coronavirus pandemic is reflected there for just three months. The figures as at June 30, 2021 will certainly be a challenge for the clubs, and the focus must currently be on generating additional funds to improve the clubs' economic sustainability.

Axel Faix: I'm also on the scientific advisory board of FanQ [FanQ is a voting app for soccer fans]. One of the last studies examined the question of what fans expect from their clubs. In terms of sustainability, the expectation of economic sustainability clearly emerged. The development of young players, who ideally strengthen the identification between clubs and fans and generate subsequent transfer revenue, as well as a solid financial policy without significant debt are at the forefront. Furthermore, a clear commitment against racism. The ecological challenges are not quite as much of a focus for the fans as the issue of human rights.

Axel Faix: When awarding major events in future, the commitments and proof of after-use concepts must be even clearer and more binding. Of course, it is a trade-off, which means that many countries will question their willingness to host major sporting events if the requirements for sustainability become more stringent. On the other hand, there is no alternative.

Axel Faix: In the near future, paper tickets, for example, will clearly no longer play a role in stadium attendance and mobile payment solutions, for example at the sales stands, will be a matter of course. The digital management of visitor flows or the arrival and departure of cars and the efficient search for parking spaces in particular offer great opportunities to achieve benefits for stadium visitors and reduce the consumption of resources at the same time.