November 2023
Was Saudi Arabia’s World Cup win an inside job?
Australia and other potential bidders for the 2034 soccer tournament didn’t go ahead, raising questions about possible FIFA favouritism.
August 2023
Neymar makes $152m Saudi switch as kingdom’s ambitions grow
The Brazilian soccer star has reportedly signed with the Saudi league after agreeing a deal with Paris St Germain.
Why Saudi Arabia is spending a fortune on luring big sporting names
The kingdom says the splurge will help its plan to diversify its economy away from oil. But critics say it amounts to “sportswashing”.
June 2023
Messi spurns $600m Saudi offer to help Beckham’s Miami dream
The Argentine superstar is being offered a profit-sharing agreement with Adidas and Apple, The Athletic reported, citing people familiar with the transaction.
May 2023
Lionel Messi in talks for $600m deal with Saudis
Saudi Arabia is preparing to offer football star Lionel Messi a $600 million annual contract to play with the Saudi Pro League this summer.
November 2022
Mercurial Mbappe fires France into last 16 after win over Denmark
Lionel Messi reignites Argentina’s hopes in win over Mexico; France is first to advance after beating Denmark; Australia has it all to play for after beating Tunisia; giant killing Saudis fall short against Poland.
Here’s what happened in the World Cup overnight
The Socceroos took on reigning champions France, Mexico battled Poland, Denmark fought Tunisia – and worst-ranked Saudi Arabia shocked favourites Argentina.
October 2021
Soccer’s latest megadeal is no Ted Lasso-type tale
The takeover of Newcastle United by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund continues private capital’s push into sport. But it has also raised claims of “sportswashing”.