An expert explains it: Madrid's jersey is the most expensive in the world for this reason

Real Madrid presented just a few days ago the financial statement for the 24/25 fiscal year. These records confirm that it is the only club in world soccer to exceed €1 billion ($1 billion) in revenue, leaving a surplus of €24 million ($24 million). This is a true rarity in the European soccer elite, which is almost always marked by multi-billion losses.

In addition to the sporting successes achieved by the Madrid side on the field, the immense economy of the Merengue squad is also kept strong off the field. One of the most notable boosts the club receives comes from its sponsors, effects that can be seen on the jersey worn by Xabi Alonso's current players.

It's no coincidence that this is the most expensive kit in all of soccer. Despite the new deal signed between Puma and Manchester City, which offers a significant source of revenue to the sky blue team, brands are still looking toward Chamartín. Ranked first, the jersey worn by players like Mbappé, Vinícius, or Fede Valverde generates about €260 million ($260 million) per season.

One of the reasons for this spectacular figure is Adidas. The German sportswear company has been the main supplier for Real Madrid since 1998, an agreement as long-lasting as it is beneficial for both parties: €120 million ($120 million) per season. The same is true for Fly Emirates, the airline from the United Arab Emirates: that name appeared for the first time on a jersey in 2013, but the partnership officially began in 2011.

It keeps at the top

With a sponsorship deal signed through next year, the Middle Eastern airline pays about €70 million ($70 million) per season for this highly memorable commercial partnership. The latest deal signed regarding Real Madrid's jersey brings in another €70 million ($70 million) annually: the HP logo on the left sleeve of the kit. This agreement with the American tech company is a truly striking change.

Until now, Real Madrid hadn't allowed any brand to place its logo anywhere other than the usual and normalized spot in the center of the jersey. This exceptional growth is not only a reason that attracts more companies, but the jersey itself is a compelling reason to try to secure a spot. "Madrid offers constant exposure in Champions League final stages, which multiplies visibility", says Jaime Fortuño, a sports marketing expert.

"The value of a sponsorship is determined by a combination" of factors that Real Madrid has successfully worked on throughout its soccer history. Of special importance is the ability to "integrate" its sponsors "into the club's narrative", says Jaime Fortuño. The clearest example of this new sponsorship model is the deal between Real Madrid and the tech company HP.

The €260 million ($260 million) caused by Real Madrid's jersey is unbeatable. In second place is Manchester City: despite the boost from its new deal with Puma and other sponsors, it manages to reach €210.5 million ($210.5 million). Arsenal completes the podium with €200 million ($200 million), an amount that includes money from a company that is also a Real Madrid sponsor: the Eastern airline Fly Emirates.