Competitive balance within CONCACAF: a longitudinal and comparative descriptive review of the seasons 2002/2003–2017/2018

Abstract

Rationale/Purpose: This article examines the trend in competitive balance and its association with end-of-year FIFA rankings among CONCACAF football associates.Design/methodology/approach: Secondary data were collected from the football domestic league tables for the seasons 2002/2003–2017/2018 of Costa Rica, Mexico, USA, Panama, Jamaica, Honduras, Trinidad and Tobago and Canada. Competitive balance was assessed using the Five-Club Concentration Ratio Index of Competitive Balance (C5ICB), Herfindahl Index of Competitive Balance (HICB) and Lorenz Seasonal Balance Curve. Linear regression modeling was used to assess the relationship between end-of-year FIFA ranking and competitive balance.Findings: The most competitive league was the USA, Honduras and Mexico, while the least competitive leagues were Trinidad and Tobago, Canada and Panama. For the 2017/2018 season within CONCACAF it was seen that the football leagues of the Jamaica, USA, Mexico and Panama were the most competitive balance leagues. The HICB and C5ICB were both significant predictors of a change in CONCACAF countries end-of-year FIFA rankings.Practical Implications: Competitive balance continues to be a vital component in assessing the viability and competitiveness of a football league which may have direct impacts on league authorities, marketing revenue streams and spectator attractions.Research Contribution: This is the first study to describe competitive balance in CONCACAF.