Since 2021, Saudi Arabia is estimated to have invested over £5 billion in sports, a central aspect of the Crown Prince’s strategy to diversify the nation’s economy.
The kingdom has hosted numerous significant sporting events, including competitions in football, Formula 1, golf, and boxing. Additionally, its Public Investment Fund has initiated the LIV Golf series, gained control of four Saudi Pro League teams, and acquired Newcastle United.
However, Saudi Arabia faces accusations of utilizing its sports investments and hosting prestigious events as a means to enhance its global image, a practice commonly referred to as ‘sportswashing’.
The country has drawn criticism for human rights abuses and has been implicated in the 2018 assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, violations against women’s rights, criminalizing homosexuality, limiting free expression, and involvement in the Yemen conflict.
The Saudi government contends that investing in sports is beneficial for the economy, encourages tourism, and motivates citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles.
As per FIFA regulations, nations intending to host events must pledge to uphold human rights.
In a December interview with BBC Sport, Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, dismissed claims of sportswashing as “very shallow.”
“Every country has areas in which it can improve; no one is perfect. We recognize this, and these events are instrumental in helping us progress towards a better future for all,” he remarked.
