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对话五位中国足球“热爱者”:回归热爱,中国足球再出发

Core Insights - The upcoming FIFA Club World Cup is generating significant excitement among football fans globally, showcasing thrilling matches and intense competition among top clubs [1] - In China, the "Sichuan Super League" has emerged as a major event, reflecting a growing passion for football among fans, emphasizing the importance of love for the sport [2][3] - A white paper highlights the positive trends in Chinese football, including increased participation and improved infrastructure, driven by grassroots enthusiasm and policy support [3][11] Group 1: Football Environment Changes - The white paper identifies five key areas of improvement in Chinese football: infrastructure, commercial environment, professional development, cultural perception, and public opinion [3] - Significant progress has been made in increasing the number of football fields, with a rise from 117,300 in 2019 to 161,000 by 2024, indicating a growing infrastructure [11] - The number of registered grassroots players surged by 308,000 in 2024, surpassing 500,000 for the first time, reflecting a 160% annual growth rate [9] Group 2: Youth Engagement and Development - The white paper reveals that over 65% of respondents developed a love for football before the age of 18, with 84.78% supporting their children’s involvement in the sport [9] - The number of registered elite youth players reached 92,979 in 2024, marking a 6.3% increase, while youth events grew by 175% [14] - The shift in parental attitudes towards youth football emphasizes participation for enjoyment and personal development rather than solely for competitive success [8][24] Group 3: Commercial and Sponsorship Growth - The commercial environment for football in China is improving, with the 2024 Chinese Super League attracting over 4.66 million spectators, averaging nearly 20,000 per match [12] - Sponsorship interest is rising, with brands like Hisense becoming deeply integrated into the football industry, enhancing their marketing strategies through long-term partnerships [12][14] - The white paper indicates that the popularity of amateur leagues like "Village Super" and "Sichuan Super" is drawing significant attention from sponsors and fans alike [12] Group 4: Cultural and Public Perception - The public's perception of football is becoming more rational and supportive, with media coverage reflecting a more balanced view of the sport [15][18] - The white paper notes that positive language dominates discussions about football, indicating a growing appreciation and commitment to the sport among fans [15] - The increasing professionalism of fans, who now engage with tactical and operational aspects of the game, marks a shift in the football culture in China [18] Group 5: Future Outlook - Experts express optimism about the future of Chinese football, predicting potential success in international competitions by 2034 and 2038, driven by the current youth engagement [24][26] - The need for improved operational capabilities in amateur leagues is highlighted, suggesting that structural changes are necessary for sustained growth [25] - The integration of AI technology in enhancing the viewing experience is seen as a key factor in attracting and retaining fans [20][22]