A new era of Saudi Arabian football

The Saudi Pro League (SPL) is about to enter a new phase as it prepares to welcome its first foreign investor - an important milestone after a period of massive capital injection from the state.

Cristiano Ronaldo is playing in Saudi Arabia.

Since 2023, when the Public Investment Fund (PIF) acquired the four biggest clubs - Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ahli and Al Ittihad - Saudi Arabian football has made a strong push on the world map. These "big guys" have continuously stirred up the transfer market, ready to spend big to attract top stars from Europe to wear SPL shirts.

Not only the big four, a series of other teams have also received financial support. Aramco, the kingdom's largest oil and gas group, took over Al Qadsia Club. Meanwhile, future city projects such as NEOM and Diriyah Project have acquired Al Suqoor, Diriyah and Al Ula, respectively, making these clubs part of the country's development strategy.

So far, the investments have come from domestic sources. But according to The Athletic , a deal to sell the club to foreign investors is in the final stages and could be announced in the coming weeks.

Calling for foreign capital is not only commercial but also a strategic step in the Vision 2030 plan - opening up and integrating more deeply with the world. PIF spent more than 1 billion euros to "upgrade" four big clubs, but the long-term goal is to turn the teams into attractive brands, capable of attracting international investors and bringing profits.

Al Hilal’s success at the FIFA Club World Cup is testament to the investment being made. The Saudi government continues to push ahead with privatisation: last year, six clubs – Al Okhdood, Al Orobah, Al Kholood, Zulfi, Al Nahda and Al Ansar – were put up for sale. Of those, three are in the SPL, and new owners – including foreign investors – are expected to be announced soon.

The SPL is moving out of its period of unlimited spending. The new goal is to build a sustainable development model, with modern infrastructure and a professional operating system on par with European clubs. According to The Athletic , the government is encouraging clubs to be financially proactive, reducing their dependence on state capital.

If the foreign investment deal is successful, this will be a major turning point, helping SPL become a truly international playground, not only relying on state money but also attracting global capital flows.

Source: https://znews.vn/ky-nguyen-moi-cua-bong-da-saudi-arabia-post1569833.html