Watch Who Owns Football? - VPRO Backlight

Who Owns Football? - VPRO Backlight is an eye-opening documentary that delves into the corporate world of football and exposes how the beautiful game has become a multi-billion dollar business. The film explores the question of who really owns football- the fans or the corporations? The documentary begins by highlighting the growth of the football industry throughout the decades. It shows how football has transformed from a mere sport to a worldwide phenomenon, with over 4 billion fans across the globe. It also highlights the increasing amount of money involved in football, with clubs being bought and sold for record-breaking sums.

The film introduces us to several football experts and insiders who offer their opinions on the topic. The experts range from football club owners, players, journalists, to economists, and they all give their insights on the business behind the sport.

The documentary goes on to present several examples of how football clubs are being turned into brands or products, as they are purchased by wealthy individuals and corporations. The film highlights the example of Manchester City, which has been bought by the Abu Dhabi United Group, a company owned by the deputy prime minister of the UAE. The club has since been transformed into a global brand, with numerous sponsorship deals, and investments in facilities, players, and infrastructure.

The film also delves into the way football broadcasting rights have become a lucrative business, with television and streaming companies bidding billions of dollars to secure the rights to broadcast matches. The documentary shows how companies like Sky Sports, BT Sport, and Amazon Prime have monopolized the football broadcasting market, making it more difficult for fans to access some matches, and driving up the price of subscriptions.

The film also tackles the issue of fan ownership and how important it is for the survival of football clubs. The documentary shows how clubs like FC Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund have been able to thrive by involving their fans in the decision-making process. It also highlights how fan-owned football clubs face greater challenges in competing with wealthier clubs that are backed by corporations.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is its discussion of the impact that corporate ownership has had on the football culture. The documentary shows how football has become a symbol of capitalism, rather than a sport that brings people together. It highlights the way in which football stadiums have been turned into commercial spaces, with sponsors' logos on every inch of the stands, and how the game has become increasingly exclusive, with only the wealthiest fans able to afford the most expensive seats.

Overall, Who Owns Football? - VPRO Backlight is an excellent film that offers a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the business behind football. The documentary raises several important questions, such as whether football clubs should be seen as businesses, or as cultural institutions that serve the wider society. It also sheds light on the complex relationships between the football industry, the fans, and the corporations that own the clubs. This documentary is a must-watch for any football fan, as well as anyone interested in the intersection of sports and business.