Introduction
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has rapidly become a global powerhouse in sports. From football and golf to boxing and Formula 1, Saudi investments are reshaping international sports.
But what’s next for Saudi Arabia’s sports ambitions? Will they move into tennis, esports, or even the Olympics?
Here’s a complete look at Saudi Arabia’s sports takeover and what the future may hold.
Contents
IntroductionSaudi Arabia’s Major Sports Investments So FarFootball – The Centerpiece of Saudi AmbitionsGolf – LIV’s Disruption and DominanceBoxing – New Global Hub for Big FightsFormula 1 – Middle East’s Premier Racing EventFuture Sports Saudi Arabia Might EnterSaudi Arabia’s Goals in SportsControversies and CriticismSupporters’ Perspective – Why It’s Good for SportsWhat Could Be Next?Saudi Arabia’s Sports Vision by 2030Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s Major Sports Investments So Far
| Sport | Key Moves and Investments |
|---|---|
| Football (Soccer) | Acquired top players (Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Benzema), owning Saudi Pro League. |
| Golf | Created LIV Golf, merging with PGA Tour in historic deal. |
| Formula 1 | Hosts Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at Jeddah Corniche Circuit. |
| Boxing | Hosts mega fights like Usyk vs Joshua, Fury’s events. |
| Wrestling (WWE) | Major WWE events (Crown Jewel, Night of Champions). |
Football – The Centerpiece of Saudi Ambitions
Saudi Arabia’s Pro League (SPL) has shocked the football world by signing global stars:
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr) – First major signing.
- Karim Benzema (Al Ittihad) – Ballon d’Or winner.
- Neymar Jr (Al Hilal) – Brazil’s top talent.
- Sadio Mané, Kante, Mahrez – Joining various Saudi clubs.
Goal?
- Turn SPL into a world-class league.
- Host FIFA World Cup 2034 (confirmed as bidder and favorite).
Golf – LIV’s Disruption and Dominance
- LIV Golf: A Saudi-funded league challenging PGA Tour, now merged.
- Attracted stars like Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson.
- Massive prize money changing the golf landscape.
Boxing – New Global Hub for Big Fights
Saudi Arabia is becoming the go-to venue for heavyweight fights.
- Hosted Anthony Joshua vs Usyk rematch.
- Planning Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder, and crossover MMA boxing events.
- Offering record purses to lure fighters.
Formula 1 – Middle East’s Premier Racing Event
- Saudi Arabian GP in Jeddah is one of F1’s fastest street circuits.
- Part of long-term deal with Formula 1.
- Aims to expand motorsport culture and attract tourism.
Future Sports Saudi Arabia Might Enter
| Sport | Why It Makes Sense for Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|
| Tennis | Already hosting ATP/WTA events, eyeing Masters tournaments. |
| Esports | Huge investments through Savvy Gaming Group, potential global tournaments. |
| NBA or Basketball | Likely to invite NBA games or start local super league. |
| Olympics | Potential bid for 2036 Summer Olympics. |
| Cricket | Discussing T20 league or hosting international matches. |
| Cycling | Expanding Saudi Tour in pro cycling circuit. |
Saudi Arabia’s Goals in Sports
| Objective | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Diversify Economy (Vision 2030) | Shift away from oil dependency. |
| Increase Global Influence | Sports as a soft power tool. |
| Tourism and Infrastructure Growth | Attract visitors, build mega stadiums and cities. |
| Youth Engagement | Develop local talent, encourage sports culture. |
Controversies and Criticism
| Concern | Details |
|---|---|
| Sportswashing Allegations | Accused of using sports to cover human rights issues. |
| Player and Fan Backlash | Critics say money is ruining traditional leagues. |
| Global Sporting Balance | Fear of unfair advantage with unlimited money. |
Supporters’ Perspective – Why It’s Good for Sports
| Reason | Impact on Sports |
|---|---|
| New Opportunities for Athletes | Huge paydays and global stage. |
| Spreads Sports to New Markets | Expands reach to Middle East and Asia. |
| Modern Infrastructure | State-of-the-art stadiums, training facilities. |
| Fan Engagement | Attracts younger audiences to new sports. |
What Could Be Next?
| Possible Future Move | Impact |
|---|---|
| Saudi Pro League competing with Europe | Top stars staying or moving to Saudi. |
| LIV Golf as main world tour | Golf world realigned. |
| Hosting FIFA World Cup 2034 | First time in Saudi Arabia, historic. |
| Buying shares in major sports teams | Owning top teams across sports. |
| Launching biggest Esports championship | Middle East as gaming hub. |
Saudi Arabia’s Sports Vision by 2030
| Target | Goal |
|---|---|
| Global Football Hub | World-class league rivaling Europe. |
| Dominant in Combat Sports | Center for boxing, MMA, wrestling. |
| F1 and Motorsports Growth | More Middle East races, new local teams. |
| Esports Capital | Largest gaming tournaments. |
| Olympics Host? | Possible bid to host Summer Olympics. |
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s sports revolution is changing the game globally.
With billions invested, world-class events hosted, and ambitious future goals, Saudi Arabia is set to remain at the center of global sports conversation for years to come.
Whether seen as opportunity or controversy, there’s no denying Saudi Arabia is shaping the future of global sports — and the best (or the most debated) is yet to come.
