The global sports industry is booming — already worth an estimated $2.3 trillion a year, with projections suggesting it could almost triple by 2050. But according to a new report from the World Economic Forum, that growth is far from guaranteed.

In this episode of The Athletic FC, Matt Slater digs into the findings of Sports for People and Planet, a report that warns climate change and rising physical inactivity could threaten sport’s long-term business model. So how can sport — and football in particular — continue to grow without undermining its own future?

First, Matt speaks to Tony Simpson, one of the report’s authors from consultancy firm Oliver Wyman, to unpack the numbers and the risks facing the industry. Then, attention turns to the club level, with insights from Rishi Jain of Liverpool FC on how one of football’s biggest institutions is thinking about sustainability, responsibility and profit in the years ahead.

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Does the rise of illegal streaming pose an existential threat to football?

To answer that question, Adam Leventhal has spent the last six months looking into the culture, crime and crisis associated with pirating live football matches.

In this special episode of The Athletic FC Podcast you'll hear undercover reporting and behind the scenes access to police investigations, including how the world's largest illegal sports streaming platform was taken down.

We get the takes of match-going fans, and ask if 'Premflix' is the future of Premier League broadcasting?

If you're an Athletic subscriber you can have your say here.

And if you're not yet a subscriber, join here and have your say.

Please note that the documentary has content some listeners may find upsetting.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Mixing: Jay Beale

Producer: Abi Paterson

Featuring footage from Amazon, Sky Sports, tallkSPORT, Leaders.

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Referees are integral to football. But with every decision scrutinised, why would anyone want to be a referee?

The Athletic has been given insider access to the life of Premier League referees. From a gruelling pre-season training camp to matchday, join Adam Leventhal as he finds out what it takes to take command of the football pitch.

We'll explain the new laws you'll see this season and the refs will explain why they should benefit the game.

You'll hear from PGMO chief, Howard Webb, current Premier League refs Andy Madeley and Peter Bankes, the latest VAR recruits, and many more.

Join us as we take you inside the world of referees.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Exec Prod: Abi Paterson

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.