The most popular sports league on the planet, in the world’s most popular sport, is the English Premier League (EPL). Led by chief executive Richard Masters, the EPL is projected to amass $6.2 billion in revenue this season, according to Deloitte, and pre-pandemic revenues were up 16% over two seasons. International TV deals have offered a source of growth: such riches have allowed the EPL, now broadcast in 190 countries, to attract the world’s best talent—more than 100 EPL players suited up in the last World Cup. More recently, the EPL helped lead the opposition to the European Super League proposal, which fizzled after six of the league’s top teams backed out.
More Must-Reads From TIME
- The 100 Most Influential People of 2024
- How Far Trump Would Go
- Scenes From Pro-Palestinian Encampments Across U.S. Universities
- Saving Seconds Is Better Than Hours
- Why Your Breakfast Should Start with a Vegetable
- 6 Compliments That Land Every Time
- Welcome to the Golden Age of Ryan Gosling
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time