Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) in Talks To Create a Boxing League; Will This Move Affect the Funds Available for Its SPL Clubs This Summer?

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has initiated discussions with key stakeholders in the boxing world to establish a league, a venture that could cost between $4 billion and $5 billion. As the PIF is the primary source of funds for Al Ahli, Al Ittihad, Al Nassr, and Al Hilal, the potential implications for their summer plans are a cause for concern.

This recent development is part of the PIF’s broader strategy to invest heavily in sports, aligning with Prince Mohammed’s Vision 2030 program. The program aims to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil by generating sports revenue. However, the lack of clarity on whether funds for PIF-owned Saudi Pro League clubs have been allocated is a cause for concern for all parties involved.

Clubs like Al Nassr are expected to be active in this summer’s transfer window and have already targeted expensive players like Antonio Rüdiger in a reported €100 million deal. A change in the PIF’s priorities would put such transfers in jeopardy.

On the plus side, a Boxing League would be a welcome addition to the Saudi Arabian sports sector. In the past, Saudi Pro League players have attended high-profile boxing events in the Kingdom, most notably, Cristiano Ronaldo in Tyson Fury’s corner in his contest in Jeddah. A Boxing League permanently based in Saudi Arabia would add to the ecosystem and quality of life of players and their families, making playing in the Saudi Pro League an appealing choice for Europe-based professionals.