Arab country signs partnership with American group and plans to use Vini Jr. as poster boy for the 2034 World Cup
Surj Sport Investment, the sports arm of Saudi Arabia’s PIF (Public Investment Fund), signed a partnership with the American group Enfield Investment Partners, according to , this Friday (17 January 2025). The agreement foresees investments of €4 billion (R$24.9 billion) in various sports, with a focus on football.
The main objective is to transform Saudi Arabia into a global sports center. The project includes improvements to local infrastructure and the hiring of international athletes. Real Madrid striker Vini Jr. is one of the main targets to be the face of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the country.
Omar Mugharbel, president of the Saudi League, told the Spanish newspaper As that local clubs have the ability to attract and develop elite talent.
The investment also aims to expand the country’s presence in international events already hosted in Saudi Arabia, such as the Spanish and Italian Super Cups, as well as golf, UFC, Formula 1 and tennis competitions.
The plan includes the renewal of Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr, which guarantees the Portuguese player approximately R$1 billion per year, in addition to participation in the club’s shares.
Saudi Arabia was confirmed as the host of the 2034 World Cup by FIFA in October 2023, after being the only candidate for the event. The country will also host the Asian Cup in 2027 and the Asian Winter Games in 2029.
