“Privatization Considered by Elite Saudi Football Clubs Amid Winds of Change”

Saudi football is undergoing a revolution, both on and off the pitch, with some of the world’s best players considering playing in the Roshn Saudi League. The prospect of privatization is in the air at the Kingdom’s elite clubs, with plans announced to help several clubs privatize this year. The aim is to accelerate progress in sports across the Kingdom, grow participation, provide cutting-edge facilities, increase competition, and nurture future champions. The current process will focus on three main aspects of development: presenting investing in Saudi sport as an appealing prospect, improving club governance, and improving club infrastructure. Authorities are targeting a fourfold increase in revenue generated by the Saudi League, from SR450 million a year ($120 million) to SR1.8 billion by 2030. The first steps were quickly taken, with the Kingdom’s Public Investment Fund taking a 75% ownership stake in four clubs: Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli. The remaining quarter share in each club will be held by their respective non-profit foundations. The goal is to develop a league that is one of the top 10 in the world by 2030, and privately-owned clubs are able to move more quickly and be more flexible than those under public ownership.