The Middle East Round Up
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Introducing The Middle East Round Up, a new 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...
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Saudi Arabia's PIF Considering $1bn Investment in DAZN
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is considering a $1 billion (￡760 million) investment for a 10% minority stake in sports streaming company DAZN, Reuters reports. DAZN, based in London, has also been in talks with at least three other investment funds as it explores potential strategic partnerships. The company’s valuation in the deal is expected to be between $10 billion and $12 billion (￡7.6 billion to ￡9.2 billion).
Atletico Madrid Secures Long-Term Naming Rights Deal with Riyadh Air?
Atletico Madrid has sold the naming rights to its stadium, with Saudi Arabian airline Riyadh Air securing the title sponsorship. The club’s home ground will now be called the Riyadh Air Metropolitano until 2033. The deal is reported to be worth in the region of ￡210-￡250M and will see Riyadh Air increase their involvement in Atletico, as the airline has been the club’s shirt sponsor for over a year.
Riyadh Season Signs Major Sponsorship Deal with La Liga?
Riyadh Season, represented by Faisal Bafarat, CEO of the General Entertainment Authority, has signed a landmark partnership with La Liga President Javier Tebas, making Riyadh Season the official sponsor of the Spanish football league for the next three seasons.
Emirates Esports Federation & ITW Universe Unveil E-Gaming League (EGL) Set to Launch in March 2025?
The Emirates Esports Federation, in collaboration with ITW Universe, has announced the launch of the E-Gaming League (EGL), an innovative esports competition set to debut in March 2025 in the UAE. Modelled after leading sports leagues like the NBA, EPL, and IPL, the EGL will introduce a franchise-based system with a player draft, set to revolutionize competitive gaming.
Qiddiya Investment Co. Awards $1 Billion Contract for Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium Project ?
Qiddiya Investment Co., the developer behind Saudi Arabia’s ambitious entertainment and sports city, has awarded a $1 billion (SR4 billion) contract to a Spanish consortium for the construction of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium. The winning bidders, FCC Construction and Saudi firm Nesma & Partners, will build the facility just outside Riyadh.
Oak View Group & Ethara to operate Zayed Sports City and House of Sustainability as OVG Middle East
Oak View Group (OVG) and Ethara have proudly added two iconic venues to their portfolios: Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi and the House of Sustainability (formerly the UAE Pavilion) in Expo City Dubai. This expansion, part of the 2023 announcement under OVG Middle East, marks a significant milestone for the partners as they continue to shape the region’s venue and hospitality industry.
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. Quote TSP15%OFF when booking a delegate pass or contact us to discuss exhibitor and sponsor package rates. Please note the discounted delegate rate for their Riyadh is only available until 31st October.