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Soccer is the world’s favorite sport. As we gear up for the 2026 World Cup, it’s important to recognize the leagues that play a critical role in making soccer the acclaimed sport that it is today. This analysis focuses on the views each league receives as well as overall revenues and player earnings.
1. The English Premier League
A fan favorite, the English Premier League is the most watched soccer league in the world. Viewership is often as high as 4.6 billion people that are spread out over more than 150 countries. On average, the league generates more than $6 billion in revenues per year. Player salaries range from $3 to $5 million, while the highest-paid stars can make as much as $20 million a year. Notable clubs include Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City.
2. La Liga
Spain’s La Liga comes in second in terms of viewership. With teams such as Barcelona and Real Madrid, viewership is often as high as 2.8 billion people globally. League-wide revenues are often as high as $4.5 billion annually, while player salaries often range between $2 and $4 million annually.
3. Bundesliga
Based in Germany, Bundesliga attracts more than 1.4 billion viewers annually, making it the third-largest soccer league in the world. Its revenues are as high as $3.8 billion. The league is generally popular for high-scoring matches as well as its detailed player development programs. Player salaries often fluctuate widely across the league. Its most notable teams include Bayern Munich, Dortmund, and Leipzig.
4. Serie A
Italy’s Serie A is globally known as one of the most competitive soccer leagues on the planet. Total viewership is as high as 1.3 billion annually, and league wide revenues often surpass $2 billion. The play style is highly technical and quite competitive, with upsets being common. Player salaries range between $1.5 and $2.5 million a year. Notable clubs include AC Milan, Juventus, Inter Milan, and Roma.
5. Ligue 1
The French Ligue 1 is also a global soccer powerhouse that averages more than 1 billion views annually. League revenues are usually as high as $2 billion annually, and players earn about $1–$2 million annually. Notable teams include PSG and Lyons.
6. Major League Soccer
While soccer is not America's favorite sport, the MLS still grosses over 1 billion viewers annually. Revenues are also significantly high at over $1.6 billion annually. The MLS has generally recorded rapid growth in the recent past and is one of the most promising soccer leagues globally. Player salaries usually range between $500K and $1.5 million annually. Inter Miami is their most notable club that was able to sign Messi.
7. Campeonato Serie A
Brazil is, of course, known for soccer, and its league does not disappoint. Annually viewership often surpasses 600 million, and revenues can be as high as $1 billion annually. Players earn between $300K and $400K.
