Mohammed bin Salman has pledged to persist with Saudi Arabia’s sportswashing efforts, despite facing substantial criticism from Western quarters. The de facto ruler of the Kingdom has even gone so far as to express his indifference towards any scrutiny his nation may encounter due to its extensive investments in the sports industry. Saudi Arabia has been increasingly active in managing sporting competitions and acquiring sports-related entities through the People’s Investment Fund (PIF).
The sovereign wealth fund presently holds an 80% stake in the Premier League club Newcastle United. Additionally, the PIF has caused significant disruptions in the world of golf through its involvement with LIV and has contributed to the rise of Saudi-based boxing events in recent years. The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix has also firmly established itself in Formula 1 since its debut two years ago. Despite the growing international attention on Saudi Arabia’s expanding role in sports, ‘MBS’ remains unapologetic.
In a statement to Fox News, he declared, “If sports washing is going to increase my GDP by way of 1%, then I will continue doing sport washing, I don’t care. 1% growth of GDP from sport and I’m aiming for another 1.5% – call it whatever you want, we’re going to get that 1.5%.
Sportswashing refers to the strategy employed by countries or governments to enhance their global image through investments in major sporting events or teams. Saudi Arabia has come under heavy criticism for its significant human rights violations, including a high number of executions and the imposition of contentious restrictions on free speech, particularly affecting women and the LGBTQ+ community.
The takeover of Newcastle United by the PIF in late 2021 had raised concerns among Premier League fans and owners. However, the club has since made a remarkable return to the Champions League after a 20-year absence, and some fans now display Arab attire in what they view as a form of homage to the owners.
Furthermore, the PIF has assumed control of Saudi Arabia’s four largest football clubs – Al Ittihad, Al Ahli, Al Nassr, and Al Hilal – leading to significant spending in the Saudi Pro League during the past summer transfer window. Notably, PSG star Kylian Mbappe received a record-breaking offer to join Al Hilal, and several European-based players have made the move to what has become the world’s most lucrative league.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher raised concerns about the investments, particularly when rumours surfaced about Bernardo Silva potentially leaving Manchester City for Saudi Arabia. He also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in boxing and golf, tweeting, “Sports washing needs to be stopped!!!”
Human rights activists continue to oppose Saudi Arabia’s expanding presence in sports, while Amnesty International has condemned the Kingdom for its unfair trials and excessively long prison sentences for those who speak out.
After hosting a friendly match between Saudi Arabia and Costa Rica at St. James’ Park, John Hird of NUFC Fans Against Sportswashing stated that the club was being utilized as “a massive billboard to divert attention away from their numerous crimes.”
