Study Football Business in Brussels: A European Hub for the Global Game
In Belgium, where football reigns supreme, students have a unique opportunity to build a career in the sports industry at the heart of European football.
At the Global Institute of Sport (GIS), students can study at the historic Lotto Park, home to 34-time Belgian league champions and the nation’s most successful club, RSC Anderlecht. This iconic venue is also home to GIS Brussels, where students take part in our Postgraduate Diploma in International Football Business, a programme designed to meet the demands of global football employers.
A Programme Designed for the Football Industry
Through a blend of academic modules and real-world application, the course explores how football organisations operate at every level. From logistical challenges and financial forecasting to communication, marketing strategies, and sports governance frameworks, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the business behind the beautiful game.
Led by Deputy Dean Shana Doyle-Axcell, the programme regularly hosts industry-leading guest speakers, offering students the chance to hear directly from those shaping the global football landscape. Recent speakers have included:
Pieter De Ranter, Founder of We Are Brisk football tax consultancy
Paddy Byrne, First Team Coach at Chesterfield FC
Geoff Wilson, FIFA & UEFA Consultant in Sports Strategy & Marketing
Hayley Carson, Fan Engagement Manager at Brentford FC
Student Pieter De Smedt reflects on the value of these sessions:
“You can build your network and gain insights from people inside the business. That’s what I love the most.”
Real Students, Real Progress
Matthieu Struyf, a GIS graduate now working with GROW agency under Dr Erkut Sogut—former agent to Mesut Ozil—credits GIS for opening doors:
“GIS is a place where you can have your own ideas and develop with experts in the industry.”
After persistent outreach, Matthieu landed a meeting with Erkut and secured a role at the agency.
“We also have amazing teachers who know what they’re talking about. The course content is insightful and helps you grow in this industry.”
Thomas Freismuth, CEO of GROW and GIS alumnus, echoes this sentiment:
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the sports industry knowledge and connections I made at GIS.”
Want to experience it for yourself? Join us for our next Open Evening on 12th May at Lotto Park, and explore how you can start your journey in the football industry.
