LIV Golf: Is Saudi Arabia’s Sports Revolution Unleashing?

Seen in this context, LIV – It’s not surprising that it doesn’t fit the PIF’s new investment strategy – which has racked up billions in losses since its launch in 2022, especially with the huge sums needed to prepare for the World Cup in eight years’ time.

“Saudi Arabia will face significant infrastructure and delivery costs as the 2034 World Cup approaches,” says Dr John Rewilak, a sports management expert at Loughborough University.

“It is plausible that the government is shifting capital and reassessing its extensive sports portfolio. Geopolitical tensions and the increase in construction costs have accelerated these decisions, shifting spending priorities to security and essential infrastructure rather than prestigious sports assets.

Some sports seem to be more popular than others, especially among young people in Saudi Arabia.

In July, Riyadh will host both the Esports World Cup and Anthony Joshua’s heavyweight fight against Christian Prenga.

Next year, Saudi Arabia will host the AFC Asian Cup for the first time, and in cricket, it will host the tournament. Women’s World T20 Test He is said to be looking into plans for this year and the international T20 cricket tournament.

A new state-of-the-art Formula 1 circuit is being built near Riyadh.

The BBC has been told that the PFF’s long-term commitment to Newcastle United remains unchanged, a The main capital investment is to be confirmed. in the following days.

That will no doubt come as a relief to many fans now increasingly concerned about the future of their owners.

But the fate of LIV Golf serves as a warning to all those in sports who have been dependent on Saudi sports spending.

Everyone knows now that there is no guarantee.