The ranking is based on the teams' performance between 1968 and 1973, a period in which Ajax dominated European football under the guidance of Rinus Michels and Johan Cruijff. Michels was a pioneer who led Ajax from a relegation threat to the dominant club in Europe, and his legacy continues to influence various clubs on the list. The BBC praises Cruijff's philosophy, which has had a lasting impact on the sport.
Ajax's success during this period is well-documented, with the team winning the Champions League in 1971 by defeating Panathinaikos in the final. The club's influence extends beyond its own achievements, with the BBC noting that the legacy of Ajax's philosophy continues to live on in various clubs on the list, from Catalonia to Paris. Real Madrid is the only team to have been ranked twice, finishing first and third.
The list includes teams from various countries, including the Netherlands, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, and Portugal. The top 10 most successful football dynasties of all time are: Real Madrid (1955-1960), Ajax (1968-1973), Real Madrid (2013-2018), Liverpool (1976-1984), AC Milan (1988-1995), FC Barcelona (2008-2012), Bayern München (1973-1976), Benfica (1960-1962), Internazionale (1963-1965), and Paris Saint-Germain (2024-).
The BBC's ranking is a testament to Ajax's enduring influence on the sport, and the club's continued relevance in the modern game.