In a move reflecting the rapid growth of Saudi football and its increasing commercial value, the Saudi Professional League, the First Division League, and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation announced the total value of the television broadcasting rights contract for Saudi football competitions in the Middle East and North Africa region, which amounted to 2.320 billion Saudi riyals (two billion, three hundred and twenty million riyals).
This massive contract spans six seasons, beginning with the 2025-2026 season and concluding with the 2030-2031 season. This announcement, following the completion of all legal and regulatory procedures, underscores the prestigious standing of Saudi competitions, particularly the Roshan Professional League.
General context: A footballing boom within Vision 2030
This surge in commercial value was no accident; it is the direct result of an ambitious strategy aimed at developing the sports sector as part of Saudi Vision 2030. In the summer of 2023, the Sports Clubs Investment and Privatization Project was launched, which saw the Public Investment Fund acquire majority stakes in four of the Kingdom's top clubs: Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli. This government investment paved the way for attracting some of the brightest stars in world football, starting with the arrival of the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in late 2022, followed by the addition of other global superstars such as Neymar Jr., Karim Benzema, Sadio Mané, and N'Golo Kanté, raising the league's competitiveness and global media attention to unprecedented levels.
The importance of the deal and its expected impact
The importance of this agreement goes beyond mere financial figures, as it carries strategic dimensions that will affect the future of Saudi football on various levels:
- At the local level, the contract provides long-term financial stability for Saudi clubs. Revenues will be distributed according to an approved model that ensures enhanced financial resources for the clubs, enabling them to continue investing in infrastructure, developing youth sectors, and improving team quality. Furthermore, the acquisition of the rights by Thamaniyah, a subsidiary of the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG), guarantees a superior viewing experience for local audiences, thanks to its expertise in digital content creation and its advanced technological infrastructure.
- At the regional and international levels, this deal solidifies the Roshan League's position as the strongest and most valuable football competition in the Middle East and Asia. It also sends a clear message about the league's global ambitions to become one of the top 10 leagues in the world. Having a media partner of SRMG's caliber will contribute to expanding broadcast reach to new audiences worldwide, enhancing the Saudi League's brand and attracting more international sponsors and investors.
In conclusion, this contract is a testament to the success of the strategy adopted to develop the football system, and establishes a new phase of professional and commercial growth, ensuring the sustainability of excellence and enhancing the contribution of the sports sector to the national economy.
