Premier League Takes Newcastle United Owners’ Pledge Seriously Amid Saudi Ownership Controversy
The Premier League has reiterated its commitment to taking the Newcastle United owners’ pledge seriously in the midst of the ongoing controversy surrounding Saudi Arabian ownership. Richard Masters, the league’s chief executive, has made it clear that they are closely monitoring the situation and considering all relevant factors.
The controversy stems from the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) acquisition of an 80% stake in Newcastle United in October 2021. The Premier League has pointed to the legally binding assurances given by Saudi Arabia that it would not exert control over the club. However, critics have raised concerns about the potential influence of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who chairs the sovereign wealth fund.
Notably, there has been no public reference by the Premier League to the resolution of a piracy dispute in the Middle East involving beIN SPORTS, the league’s official broadcast partner in the region. The lifting of the ban on beIN SPORTS, which prevented its broadcast in Saudi Arabia, came just a day before the completion of the takeover. The Premier League’s official statement at the time emphasized that the dispute centered around ownership and control of the club post-takeover.
Documents submitted on behalf of the PIF in a U.S court earlier this year referred to the fund as a sovereign instrumentality of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and described the chairman of Newcastle United, Yasir Al-Rumayyan, as a sitting minister of the Saudi government. These details have further fueled concerns about potential Saudi influence.
During the Premier League’s launch day, Richard Masters addressed the issue when questioned by talkSPORT. While he emphasized his inability to comment on ongoing investigations, he confirmed that the league was aware of the documents submitted in the U.S court. Importantly, he emphasized the seriousness with which the Premier League takes the assurances provided by the Newcastle United owners.
Masters stated, We take those assurances very seriously so fans can be confident in that. This response suggests that the Premier League is committed to thoroughly investigating the matter and ensuring that the Newcastle United owners adhere to their stated pledge of non-involvement by Saudi Arabia in club affairs.
The ongoing Saudi ownership controversy has sparked considerable debate and concern among football fans, analysts, and industry experts. While some argue that the Premier League should have conducted more stringent due diligence before approving the takeover, others highlight the importance of adhering to legally binding assurances.
Moving forward, the Premier League will continue to face scrutiny regarding the Newcastle United ownership situation. The league must balance the need for transparency, satisfying concerns about potential Saudi influence, and maintaining the integrity of one of the world’s most-watched football competitions.
As the investigation progresses, fans and stakeholders eagerly await further updates from the Premier League. The outcome of the investigation will undoubtedly have significant implications for the future of Newcastle United and the broader landscape of football ownership. The Premier League’s commitment to taking the owners’ pledge seriously will be tested, but its decision-making and actions will ultimately shape the club’s destiny.
