Bradford City may have only just stepped up from League Two, but they’re already one of the biggest names in League One — and the potential for further growth is massive.
The Bantams’ nine-match unbeaten streak at the start of this season was a new club record, and under Graham Alexander, they could well emerge as one of the surprise contenders in the third tier. It’s been 25 years since City last played top-flight football, but financially and structurally, they look well set to keep climbing the EFL ladder.
Finance expert Adam Williams believes Bradford are on the right track to becoming a thriving Championship side, praising their impressive revenue streams and fan-driven initiatives. He highlighted that City brought in £7.7m during 2023/24 in League Two and could push towards £10m this season in League One, thanks to bigger gates, increased commercial deals, and smart ticket pricing.
Williams applauded the club’s affordable season tickets, which have helped attract a new generation of supporters, and stressed that keeping those fans engaged will be key to long-term success. With strong backing and careful management, Bradford City could become a real force in the Championship in the years ahead.
On the ownership front, Stefan Rupp’s future remains a hot talking point. As co-owner, he has loaned millions to the club — money he’s unlikely to recoup unless he eventually sells. While Bradford run at around a £1m annual loss, Williams explained that this is common at this level and manageable as long as owners continue to provide support.
Despite criticism in the past, Rupp has overseen steady and sustainable progress, leaving the Bantams in a far healthier financial position than many of their EFL rivals. And if the club continues to perform on and off the pitch, a lucrative play-off push — or even new investment — could soon be on the horizon.
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