The Saudi Pro League has been making headlines recently, not just in the Middle East but globally. With an influx of international stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, the league is setting new standards. This blog aims to explore the rise of Saudi Pro League teams and how they are transitioning from local champions to global contenders.
A Brief History
The Saudi Pro League was established in 1976 and represents the pinnacle of football in Saudi Arabia. Over the years, teams like Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Nassr have dominated the league. Al Hilal holds the record with 18 titles, followed by Al Ittihad and Al Nassr with nine each.
The Game Changer: Investment and Recruitment
The 2023/24 season promises to be a landmark year for the Saudi Pro League. The kingdom has invested significantly in its top league, marked by an unprecedented level of player recruitment. Big names like N’Golo Kante, Roberto Firmino, and Steven Gerrard have joined the league, making it more competitive than ever.
Vision 2030: A New Dawn
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman launched the Sports Clubs Investment and Privatisation Project as part of the kingdom’s Vision 2030. The project aims to position the Saudi Pro League among the top 10 football leagues in the world. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) acquired a 75% stake in the league’s four lead clubs—Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli. This move is expected to increase the league’s annual revenue from 450 million Saudi riyals to more than 1.8 billion riyals.
Expanded Teams and Format
The league has expanded from 16 to 18 teams for the 2023/24 season. This includes the top 14 clubs from the previous season and four promoted from the second tier. The teams will play each other twice in a home and away format, totaling 34 league matches for each club.
Fan Engagement
The Saudi Pro League is among the best-attended leagues in Asia. Official figures state that attendances increased by 150% in the past year alone. Ticket prices range from SAR10 to SAR1,000 for VIP access, making it accessible for fans of all economic backgrounds.
Conclusion
The Saudi Pro League is on an upward trajectory, thanks to significant investments and the influx of international talent. With the backing of Vision 2030 and a growing fan base, the league is set to become a global football phenomenon.
