Analysing Sporting Efficiency Using Standardised Win Cost: Evidence from the FA Premier League, 1995 – 2007

Abstract

This study proposes the use of standardised win cost as a simple and transparent measure of sporting efficiency in professional team sports. Standardised win cost measures the ratio of sporting performance (i.e., output) to financial expenditure (i.e. input). The specific version developed for league performance in (association) football is the wage cost per league point standardised across seasons to allow for changes in the general level of player wages as well as league restructuring. The use of standardised win cost to analyse team performance and efficiency is illustrated with data from the FA Premier League for the period 1995 – 2007.