Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), owner of four major football clubs – Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad – has announced it is selling club shares. The move aims to find new owners for these clubs and, crucially, to reduce spending.
According to Arab media, PIF is looking to transfer ownership of these four clubs to new investors. Since 2023, PIF has held a 75% stake in each club, with the remaining 25% owned by the Saudi Ministry of Sport. PIF’s intention behind selling these stakes is to transform the development and management system of Saudi football.
In 2023, Saudi football clubs spent heavily to attract top players, including Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar Jr, and Karim Benzema, among other high-profile European stars who commanded significant transfer fees and wages. Saudi clubs have spent nearly $1 billion on transfers since 2023 to bolster their league. This initiative aligns with the country’s broader strategy to enhance its national team and prepare to host the 2030 World Cup.
PIF’s sale plan also includes divesting the 25% stake currently managed by the Ministry of Sport to the new owners of these four clubs. Al Hilal has reportedly garnered the most interest, boasting a rich history of domestic and Asian titles and featuring numerous talented players. Saudi billionaire Al Waleed bin Talal is currently leading the bid to acquire Al Hilal, ahead of Abdullah bin Mosaad, the former owner of Sheffield United.
Despite the focus on cost-saving, these four major clubs continued significant spending in the 2025-26 transfer market, securing new contracts for players worth millions. The clubs collectively spent over $200 million on new players, while Al Nassr notably extended Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract for two years at a staggering $676 million.
