Middle East Round Up - Saudi Ministry of Sport, SPL, OneFootball, PFL, E1 World Championship and more...
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The Middle East Round Up is a regionally focused newsletter from The Sports Playmaker, bringing you the latest news stories from the sports industry across this emerging and hugely important market.
In this edition:
We hope you learn something new, find some inspiration, or simply appreciate some light reading!
Saudi Arabia’s Sports Privatization Attracts 25 Companies Amid Growing Global Interest
Saudi Arabia’s ongoing sports privatization effort has drawn significant attention from local and international investors, with 25 companies competing for opportunities in six of the 14 clubs identified in the program’s initial phase. Speaking at the Budget Forum 2025, Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal highlighted the economic potential of the initiative, estimating that it could generate investments worth SR500 million ($133 million).
“There is also interest from foreign companies in acquiring local sports clubs, and we will make further announcements soon,” the minister stated.
Saudi Pro League Partners with OneFootball for Global Content Expansion
The Saudi Pro League (SPL) has announced a strategic, long-term partnership with OneFootball, a leading football-focused video and editorial platform. This collaboration aims to elevate the league's global presence by distributing official SPL content to millions of fans worldwide.
Under the agreement, OneFootball will feature an array of SPL content, including match clips, highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, and engaging social media videos. In addition to video content, OneFootball will provide English-language editorial coverage, offering in-depth analysis and news updates for its global audience.
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Professional Fighters League to Host Events in Dubai Under New Strategic Partnership
The Professional Fighters League (PFL), known for its unique MMA format featuring a regular season and playoffs, has signed an agreement with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Sports Council to stage events in the United Arab Emirates. This move marks a significant step in the PFL’s global expansion plans.
One of the highlights of this collaboration will be the Champions Series World Title event, scheduled for January 25, 2025, at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai’s City Walk. The event will feature Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov defending his title against Paul Hughes in the main event, showcasing the talent acquired through PFL’s acquisition of Bellator in 2023.
Jeddah to Host E1 Electric Boat World Championship for Second Year Running
Nine international teams will compete in the opening round of the E1 Electric Boat World Championship at Jeddah Waterfront on January 24–25, 2024. Organised by the Saudi Water Sports and Diving Federation under the supervision of the Ministry of Sports and in collaboration with the Union Internationale Motonautique, the event showcases the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing maritime sports.
The star-studded championship features teams owned by global icons such as Will Smith, Marc Anthony, Steve Aoki, Rafael Nadal, Sergio Perez, Tom Brady, Virat Kohli, Didier Drogba, and Marcelo Claure. Eighteen male and female drivers will represent their respective teams in this thrilling two-day competition, which forms part of a global series of races.
Our partners at the?Middle East Sports Investment Forum (MESIF)?have announced their portfolio of events for 2025, which includes an intimate VIP Roundtable event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on 7th?January and their flagship event, which returns to London, England on 7th-8th?May.
Working in partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Investment, MESIF events attract senior decision-makers from around the world, creating an unparalleled environment for industry leaders, investors, policymakers, and sports professionals to connect and share insights, explore opportunities, and shape the future of sports investment in the region.
The Sports Playmaker is delighted to can offer exclusive rates to participate in these unique industry events. Please use code TSP15%OFF when booking or contact us direct to find out how you can take advantage.