FC Goa calls for govt support to reduce match costs

FC Goa CEO Ravi Puskur maintains that unlike professional clubs around the world, which receive strong support from local governments and sporting bodies, Indian clubs face challenges in attaining similar levels of stability

What specific factors contribute to the high cost of Rs 45 lakh, as you claimed, to organise a match at Fatorda?

We have to pay for stadium rental charges, occupancy and floodlight usage charges. Beyond these, we also have to have to pay for police and arrange for private security, and many other operating costs that are required to ensure the match is conducted as per international standards.

How does FC Goa plan to address the financial disparity between match costs and revenue?

We need to reduce match costs, primarily, first. The current football financial is not robust enough to cover this up. However, a great amount of charges can be saved by getting support from the government and other stakeholders who we rely on to conduct the . Once match costs are somewhat reduced, we can look at revenue, but we’re very mindful to ensure that it’s not done so at the cost of the match becoming inaccessible to the Goan audience.

If not Fatorda, what are the potential smaller venues FC Goa is considering for future matches?

We’ve not done a feasibility study of any alternative ground yet in terms of hosting games. Our hope remains that we continue to play at Fatorda but in far better financially viable conditions.

What changes would need to occur for FC Goa to continue hosting matches at Fatorda?

If we get support from the government and the local authorities, we’d definitely be able to make the game a lot more accessible to the public. If that does indeed happen, I’m sure we can find alternative ways to increase revenues through sponsorships and other means.

How does the current financial model impact the sustainability of FC Goa in the ISL?

The current model is simply not sustainable in the long run. Professional clubs around the world have great support from local governments and sporting bodies, which allows them to reach some level of sustainability. Till a replication of that happens in India, running in India will not be viable.

What support or changes can the local government or sports authorities provide to help FC Goa?

There are a few costs over which the sports authorities and the government have a direct say. If they were to make a consideration there for the greater good of the game, we’re confident that it will make a significant difference.

How might shifting to smaller venues affect the fan experience and attendance at matches?

I’m not sure if smaller venues will particularly benefit the fan experience. Opposition teams have found a packed Fatorda a daunting prospect, and we need that support on our side. I know first-hand how tough it is to play away in Kerala and Kolkata where the fan frenzy in the stadiums is high. Fans can always spur their teams into action and spark a turnaround.

What strategies could FC Goa implement to increase match day revenue?

Ticket pricing is the main aspect and the simplest way to increase revenues. But we’re not keen on doing that at the expense of the Goan audience. Football is a sport of the masses, and we don’t want our pricing to contradict that. Increasing revenue can happen indirectly by bringing in more to offset costs and expenses. However, that is only feasible when the partners see it as an attractive proposition to work with FC Goa.

Is there a possibility for sponsorship or partnerships to offset match organisation costs?

We’ve already got some wonderful partners working with us who we’re very thankful for. However, any potential new sponsors always want to know how much footfall is received before investing in the team. That's the reason we must have Fatorda stadium at full capacity, given the sporting and perspectives.

What feedback have fans provided, if any, regarding the potential shift from Fatorda to smaller venues?

We haven’t spoken to any fans yet regarding this. I maintain that moving away will be a last resort, and we remain hopeful that the football ecosystem backs the team and allows us to retain Fatorda, where there have been some incredible memories made over the years.