The Saudi Pro League, known for its substantial spending on high-profile players, aims to expand its global broadcasting presence and ultimately become one of the world’s top 10 soccer leagues. Chief Operating Officer Carlo Nohra highlighted the league’s ambitious long-term strategy at the APOS conference in Bali, Indonesia.
While the acquisition of star players is an important initial step for on-field growth, the league’s overarching goal is to grow its off-field commercialization and address all aspects necessary to achieve top-tier status globally.
Saudi Arabia’s substantial investments in sports are part of a larger strategy to diversify its economy away from oil by developing commercial infrastructure, aiming to become a prominent hub for tourism, leisure, and entertainment. These investments also serve to enhance the country’s global image. Critics argue that this approach, encompassing soccer, golf, boxing, motor racing, and other ventures, is a tactic to divert attention from Saudi Arabia’s human rights concerns.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, when questioned about this “sportswashing” allegation in a recent Fox News interview, acknowledged it but expressed indifference to criticism, emphasizing that these sports investments should ultimately contribute positively to Saudi GDP growth.
Nohra, clarified that their objectives include improving on-field performance through the acquisition of top-tier players, increasing stadium attendance, and driving the commercialization of an enhanced overall sports product.
“We had a long, hard look at ourselves, we’ve discovered that we need to improve the governance of the league, we need to improve the product itself and the commercialization of that product, better understanding of our fans,” Nohra added.
Addressing issues related to player acquisitions and enhancing club capabilities were also recognized as priorities. Additionally, they are evaluating the league’s organizational structure to compete on the global stage effectively.
(Source: Elliot Smith | CNBC |
