Saudi Crown Prince: Football investment for global image is media gossip.

Hina599

"The Saudi league has been splurging on European star players this year, a move widely seen as Saudi Arabia's investment in enhancing its international image. However, the Saudi league itself has not been profitable, and in fact, it's in the red. Faced with these questions, the Saudi Crown Prince has come forward to say that he doesn't care about such claims. He mentioned that if these claims could boost their GDP, then let the media say what they want.

Last year, during the Qatar World Cup, Western media reported that Qatar spared no expense to enhance its international image, and the facts later confirmed that Qatar had achieved its goals. The 2022 Qatar World Cup was a successful event for the world, and Qatar as a nation became more widely recognized. Saudi Arabia, being a wealthy nation like Qatar, saw its neighbor's success and wanted to boost its international image through hosting similar sports events.

Later, the Saudi Crown Prince invested heavily to allow Saudi league teams to purchase star players, and this move increased the league's visibility on the international stage. The Saudi league, which previously didn't get much sports coverage, has now become a regular in major sports news, proving its success. However, just when everyone thought Saudi Arabia had achieved its goals, the Saudi Crown Prince stated that the initial assumptions about their intentions were wrong.

Recently, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman gave an interview to Fox Sports. During the interview, he stated that sports have contributed to the growth of the Saudi economy. He acknowledged that the world views Saudi Arabia's significant investments, but he expressed indifference to such claims. In fact, their actions have improved their country's economy, with sports contributing to a 1% increase in Saudi Arabia's GDP. Their next goal is 1.5%, so if someone insists on the idea that Saudi Arabia aims to improve its international image through sports, then let them think what they want, as long as it contributes to their country's economic betterment.

Undoubtedly, the Saudi league has become a focus of international football, and it should maintain its competitiveness for some time. As for how long it can sustain this level of influence, only time will tell."

Iti9

Not short of money, but not foolish either. Many people may have forgotten that Saudi Arabian football is famous for unpaid wages and they simply don't care about you no matter how much you chase after them.

Indra55

The media indeed often engages in nonsense; they are driven by self-interest.

Jiten171

I'm not sure how the GDP has increased, but it's possible that the investment in transfer fees and player salaries has contributed to it. Additionally, higher ticket prices and increased attendance, as well as higher broadcasting fees and a wider international audience, could also play a role. However, the exact factors contributing to the GDP increase may vary and would require a more in-depth economic analysis.

Yamini003

Is it really nonsense? While it's true that Saudi Arabia is very wealthy, I believe they still have intentions to improve their national image.