At a Glance
- Al Ahly SC leads Africa with unmatched success, boasting 42 domestic titles, 8 Champions League wins, and a massive 50-million-strong fan base.
- Mamelodi Sundowns excels with 10 league titles, strong financial backing, and elite facilities, representing South Africa’s rising football influence.
- Zamalek SC rivals Al Ahly, showcasing a legacy of 14 domestic titles, 5 Champions League trophies, and a fiercely loyal 20-million-strong fan base.
Football has long been a passion for millions across Africa, transcending borders, languages, and cultures to unite fans in the spirit of the beautiful game.
Over the years, African football has grown exponentially in popularity and influence, with clubs across the continent producing exceptional talent, dominating regional competitions, and making a mark on the global stage.
African football clubs continue to grow in stature, with their impact felt both on and off the pitch.
From Al Ahly’s dominance to Mamelodi Sundowns’ rise, these clubs exemplify the spirit of excellence and resilience.
Supporting and developing these institutions is crucial for the advancement of African football, fostering economic growth, and uniting communities across the continent.
Shore Africa delves into the 10 biggest football clubs in Africa, spotlighting their achievements, financial prowess, and cultural significance.
These clubs have not only cemented their legacies on the pitch but also contributed significantly to the economic and social landscape of their respective nations.
Criteria for ranking
To determine the top football clubs in Africa, we used the following criteria:
Revenue generation: Clubs were evaluated based on their income from sponsorship deals, merchandise sales, and ticketing revenue. The ability to generate substantial revenue reflects strong brand value and commercial appeal.
The fan base and social media following: The number of devoted supporters, both locally and globally, alongside active engagement on social media platforms, highlights a club’s popularity and reach.
Competitive success: Performance in domestic leagues and continental competitions plays a significant role. Titles, trophies, and consistent participation in tournaments were all considered.
Infrastructure and facilities: The quality of stadiums, training grounds, and other facilities reflects a club’s commitment to excellence and its capacity to attract top-tier talent.
By analyzing these factors, we’ve identified the clubs that exemplify the pinnacle of African football.
Top 10 biggest football clubs in Africa
Al Ahly SC, often hailed as the “Club of the Century” by CAF, epitomizes football excellence in Africa.
Founded in 1907 and based in Cairo, this iconic Egyptian club, owned by Abdul Rahman Eisa Al-Manaai, boasts an unmatched legacy.
Domestically, Al Ahly has clinched 44 Egyptian Premier League titles, 39 Egyptian Cups, and 15 Egyptian Super Cups, solidifying its dominance in national football.
On the continental stage, Al Ahly shines as Africa’s most successful club, with a staggering 12 CAF Champions League titles, four African Cup Winners’ Cups, eight CAF Super Cups, and one Confederation Cup victory, cementing its reputation as a global football powerhouse.
Revenue: Al Ahly’s market value stood at €32.30 million ($33.18 million), driven by lucrative sponsorship deals, ticket sales, and merchandising. Their strategic partnerships with top brands amplify their market presence.
Fan base: With over 50 million passionate supporters, Al Ahly enjoys one of the largest fan bases in the world. Their influence extends well beyond Egypt, with supporters scattered across Africa; its current followers on Instagram are 11.7 million.
Facilities: Al Ahly’s state-of-the-art facilities, including the Al Ahly WE Al Salam Stadium, underscore their commitment to maintaining a competitive edge.
Achievements: In addition to their domestic and continental success, Al Ahly has consistently represented Africa on the global stage, earning bronze medals in the FIFA Club World Cup.
2. Mamelodi Sundowns FC (South Africa)
Mamelodi Sundowns, established in 1970 and based in Pretoria, stands as a symbol of excellence in South African football.
Known for their iconic yellow kit, they’ve earned the nickname “The Brazilians” for their vibrant, dynamic, and attacking style of play, reminiscent of Brazil’s footballing flair.
Revenue: With an estimated market value of €33.55 million($34.46 million) and generating $20 million in 2020, Sundowns benefit from substantial backing by billionaire owner Patrice Motsepe, who has invested heavily in the club’s growth.
Fan base: Their fan base of over 10 million is one of the most vibrant in Africa, with supporters consistently filling stadiums for matches.
Facilities: Sundowns’ training facilities are among the best in Africa, showcasing their commitment to player development and performance.
Achievements: With 10 South African league titles and a 2016 African Champions League victory, Sundowns have become a dominant force both domestically and continentally.
3. Zamalek SC (Egypt)
Cairo’s other football giant, Zamalek SC, has long been a fierce rival to Al Ahly. The club’s storied history is filled with moments of brilliance and a legacy of success.
Revenue: Zamalek’s $15 million revenue in 2020 reflects its status as a commercial and sporting juggernaut in African football.
Fan Base: With 20 million loyal supporters, Zamalek’s fan base is among the most passionate and vocal in Africa, ensuring the club remains at the forefront of Egyptian football.
Facilities: The club’s facilities, including the Cairo International Stadium, play a key role in their consistent performance.
Achievements: Zamalek’s trophy cabinet includes 14 Egyptian league titles and five African Champions League crowns, cementing their reputation as one of the continent’s finest.
4. Kaizer Chiefs FC (South Africa)
Founded in 1970, Kaizer Chiefs is one of the most iconic football clubs in Africa, with a brand that resonates far beyond South Africa.
Revenue: With $12 million in revenue in 2020, the Chiefs are a commercial success, leveraging their brand to secure lucrative sponsorships and merchandise sales.
Fan Base: Boasting 15 million fans, Kaizer Chiefs have one of the largest followings in South Africa and a significant presence across the continent.
Facilities: The club’s commitment to excellence is evident in its world-class facilities, which support both player development and fan engagement.
Achievements: Their impressive record of 12 South African league titles and an African Cup Winners’ Cup triumph showcase their enduring success.
5. Wydad Casablanca (Morocco)
- Revenue: $15 million
- Fans: over 8 million
- Success: 22 Moroccan league titles, 3 African Champions League titles
Wydad Casablanca’s storied history and success have earned them a revered status in Moroccan and African football.
Their impressive tally of 22 league titles and three CAF Champions League victories is a testament to their consistency and ambition.
Wydad’s 8 million fans are known for their unwavering support, creating an electrifying atmosphere at their games.
The club’s financial health, marked by $15 million in revenue, is bolstered by sponsorship deals and a thriving merchandise business.
6. Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia)
- Revenue: $10 million
- Fans: over 5 million
- Success: 30 Tunisian league titles, 2 African Champions League titles
Espérance de Tunis, Tunisia’s most successful club, boasts a rich heritage with 30 domestic league titles and two CAF Champions League triumphs.
The club’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level has endeared them to a fan base exceeding five million.
With $10 million in revenue, Espérance has maintained its position as a financial and footballing giant in North Africa, leveraging its success to attract top talent and secure major sponsorships.
7. TP Mazembe (DR Congo)
- Revenue: $8 million
- Fans: over 5 million
- Success: 17 Congolese league titles, 5 African Champions League titles
TP Mazembe’s dominance in Congolese and African football is unmatched. With 17 league titles and five CAF Champions League trophies, the club has cemented its reputation as one of Africa’s elite.
Known for its state-of-the-art stadium and academy, TP Mazembe’s $8 million revenue reflects its commitment to growth and excellence.
Their success on the continental stage has also made them a beloved club across sub-Saharan Africa.
8. Raja Casablanca (Morocco)
- Revenue: $7 million
- Fans: over 5 million
- Success: 11 Moroccan league titles, 3 African Champions League titles
Raja Casablanca’s rich history includes 11 league titles and three CAF Champions League crowns. Their 5 million-strong fan base is known for creating vibrant matchday atmospheres. With $7 million in revenue, Raja has built a strong brand, attracting sponsors and establishing itself as a major player in African football.
9. Orlando Pirates FC (South Africa)
- Revenue: $6 million
- Fans: over 10 million
- Success: 9 South African league titles, 1 African Cup Winners’ Cup title
Orlando Pirates, founded in 1937 and owned by Irvin Khoza is one of South Africa’s oldest and most successful clubs and boasts a passionate fan base of over 10 million with a market value of €22.38 million($22.99 million).
The club’s nine domestic league titles and a CAF Cup Winners’ Cup highlight their storied past. With $6 million in revenue, Orlando Pirates continue to invest in their infrastructure and player development to maintain their competitive edge.
10. Club Africain (Tunisia)
- Revenue: $5 million
- Fans: over 3 million
- Success: 13 Tunisian league titles, 1 African Cup Winners’ Cup title
Club Africain is a pillar of Tunisian football, with 13 league titles and a CAF Cup Winners’ Cup triumph.
Their loyal fan base of 3 million continues to support them passionately. Despite financial challenges, the club’s $5 million revenue highlights its resilience and enduring appeal.
