Saudi Pro League’s next challenge is not attracting stars, but sustainability

RIYADH: When the Saudi Pro League Transformation Strategy launched in early 2023, a period of rapid growth was expected across Saudi football. Few, however, could have predicted the scale of that growth.

At the latest Player Acquisition Centre of Excellence program press conference on Wednesday, Saudi Pro League CEO Omar Mugharbel outlined both the progress made so far and the next stage of the league’s long-term vision.

“The question is no longer ‘will players move to the SPL,’ but rather ‘who is next?’” Mugharbel told reporters.

His message was clear: Saudi football’s next challenge is no longer simply attracting elite players, but building a sustainable ecosystem around them.

The second phase of the PACE program represents a broader shift in direction. After two years defined by disruption, open markets and global attention, the league is now attempting to move toward financial sustainability and collective club growth.

Since the launch of the Transformation Strategy, the SPL says the league experienced a 221 percent increase in market value, alongside a 115 percent rise in central commercial revenues and a 353 precent increase in total commercial revenues. The league’s competitive index has also risen from 71 to 75.

“The league has become more entertaining, more competitive, and harder to predict,” Mugharbel said. “The current standings are testament to that.”

His comments come less than a week before Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal meet in a match that could decide the title race, with Al-Hilal trailing the league leaders by just two points.

“Now, however, we need to grow with these players,” continued Mugharbel. “We seek to enhance the league as both a sporting and entertainment product, and the PACE program is