Ministry of Sport Lists Six Clubs for Investment to Boost Private Sector Role
Saudi Arabia’s club privatization initiative is advancing significantly, with reports indicating an American company is nearing a takeover of Saudi pro league side Al-Kholood. This move forms part of Phase 2 of the Ministry of Sport’s strategy to attract private and foreign investment into football clubs.
According to sources, the Ministry has officially listed six clubs, including Al-Kholood, for investment opportunities. The program aims to strengthen private sector engagement, enhance club management capabilities, and achieve long-term financial sustainability across Saudi football.
The potential Al-Kholood acquisition is expected to drive substantial improvements in the club’s technical and administrative operations. This aligns with the Kingdom’s broader vision to transform its sports ecosystem through strategic partnerships and modern governance models.
While the American bidder remains unnamed, the transaction exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s push to globalize club ownership structures. The Ministry anticipates similar deals for other listed clubs will follow, accelerating development across all tiers of Saudi football ahead of major national sporting objectives.
This privatization wave follows the groundbreaking 2021 sovereign fund takeover of four major Saudi Pro League clubs (Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr), signaling an expanded approach to club reform and commercial growth.
US Investor Close to Acquiring Saudi’s Al-Kholood in Privatization Push




