Explained: How Saudi Arabia is changing the face of International Sports

Primarily known for its oil wealth, Saudi Arabia is now emerging as a major force in the global sports landscape (AP Photo)

Sports present opportunities that go beyond just players and teams. They are available to all who are ready to embrace them. Success in sports is not a matter of opinion, but of preparation and action. Those who are best positioned to take advantage of these opportunities are the ones who ultimately succeed. Among the nations making steady progress in this arena is Saudi Arabia. With a clear ambition and growing influence, the Kingdom is gradually establishing itself as a rising leader in the global sporting landscape. Backed by a high ranking on the economic index and a massive sovereign wealth fund, the Kingdom is strategically leveraging sports to diversify its economy. This initiative is a core element of Vision 2030, a long-term national plan to reduce dependence on oil and invest in other sectors.

As a nation with a growing passion for sports, Saudi Arabia continues to expand its footprint across multiple disciplines. Most recently, on Tuesday, September 30, the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation officially announced a strategic partnership with the International League T20 (ILT20).

It’s worth noting that Jeddah hosted the mega IPL auction last year, signaling the Kingdom’s growing interest in cricket. With the IPL — cricket’s richest and most prestigious league — remaining firmly on Saudi Arabia’s radar, industry insiders speculate that a formal partnership with the league could be announced in the near future.

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World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has confirmed that WrestleMania 43 will be held in Saudi Arabia in 2027. This marks another historic development, as it will be the first time WWE hosts its flagship event outside North America. Having partnered with Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) in 2018 through a ten-year deal, WWE is committed to staging major live events in the Kingdom each year.

The Kingdom has also cemented its place on the Formula One calendar, having hosted five Grand Prix races since its debut in 2021, with a contract in place that runs until 2030.

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Football is one of the most popular sports in the country; however, unlike the well-established league culture in Europe, Saudi football has long struggled to find its footing. Then, on 30 December 2022, a groundbreaking deal took place that transformed the future of sport in Saudi Arabia. That month, Al Nassr signed Cristiano Ronaldo, offering a record-breaking €200 million per year, making him the highest-paid footballer in history. His arrival was followed by Karim Benzema’s move to Al Ittihad.

The Kingdom has also shaken up the world of golf with the creation of LIV Golf, a high-profile tour that rivals the PGA and has drawn top-tier talent from across the globe. In tennis, Saudi Arabia is preparing to host the prestigious WTA Finals, while in boxing, Riyadh has already staged two blockbuster fights between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk.

From the ring to the racetrack and from the pitch to the green, Saudi Arabia is not merely taking part in global sports — it is becoming a major force. With clear vision, strong ambition, and deep investment, the Kingdom is establishing itself not just as a host, but as a future leader.