Strategic Investment in Football: A Comparative Global Analysis of Saudi Arabia's Approach

Authors

  • Muhammad Yulian Ma'mun Universitas Islam Negeri Antasari Banjarmasin https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3709-1810
  • Zainal Ilmi UIN Antasari Banjarmasin
  • Fatlullah UIN Antasari Banjarmasin
  • Lola Malihah IAI Darussalam Martapura
  • Gusti Tasya Meilania IPB University
  • Elman Nafidzi Universitas Muhammadiyah Banjarmasin

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18592/taradhi.v15i2.15912

Keywords:

Sport Industry, Investment in Football, Saudi 2030

Abstract

This study explores Saudi Arabia's ambitious entry into the global football industry through the lens of strategic investment, comparing its approach with established models like Major League Soccer (MLS) and the Chinese Super League (CSL). This research aims to examine the economic objectives and sustainability potential that drive this investment. It aims to assess how these investments contribute to economic diversification, job creation, and the broader development of Saudi Arabia’s sports industry.The study employs a literature review methodology to evaluate the potential long-term sustainability and effectiveness of Saudi Arabia's approach, drawing insights from the successes and failures of the MLS and CSL models. Findings indicate that while Saudi Arabia's substantial financial investments have the potential to rapidly elevate its league's international profile, their long-term impact depends on strategic economic management. Achieving lasting economic benefits requires not only significant financial outlays but also a well-balanced approach that includes cultivating local talent, establishing independent revenue streams, ensuring financial sustainability, and fostering a genuine football culture. By addressing these factors, Saudi Arabia can enhance the sustainability of its league and align its football investments with the broader economic diversification goals outlined in vision 2030.     Investasi Arab Saudi pada industri sepakbola melalui Saudi Pro League, merupakan salah satu upaya negara kerajaan tersebut mewujudkan visi Saudi 2030. Studi ini bertujuan mengeksplorasi ambisi Arab Saudi ikut ambil bagian dalam investasi pada industri sepak bola, dengan membandingkan pendekatannya dengan model yang telah mapan seperti Major League Soccer (MLS) dan Chinese Super League (CSL). Penelitian ini mengkaji tujuan ekonomi yang mendorong investasi ini, dengan fokus khusus pada keberlanjutan finansial dan prospek jangka panjangnya. Penelitian ini menggunakan metodologi tinjauan pustaka untuk mengevaluasi potensi keberlanjutan dan efektivitas jangka panjang dari pendekatan Arab Saudi, dengan mengambil pelajaran dari keberhasilan dan kegagalan model MLS dan CSL. Temuan penelitian menunjukkan bahwa meskipun investasi finansial besar yang dilakukan Arab Saudi berpotensi meningkatkan profil liga mereka di kancah internasional secara cepat, manfaat ekonomi yang berkelanjutan hanya dapat dicapai melalui pendekatan yang tepat. Hasil studi menunjukkan bahwa Arab Saudi harus menyoroti pentingnya pengembangan bakat lokal, penciptaan sumber pendapatan independen, penerapan manajemen keuangan yang sehat, serta pembentukan budaya sepak bola yang autentik dalam pengembangan industri sepakbolanya. Dengan memperhatikan faktor-faktor ini, Arab Saudi dapat menciptakan liga yang berkelanjutan dari sisi bisnis dan finansial, dan memastikan bahwa investasi sepak bolanya selaras dengan tujuan diversifikasi ekonomi sesuai visi Saudi 2030.

Author Biography

Muhammad Yulian Ma'mun, Universitas Islam Negeri Antasari Banjarmasin

Google Scholar

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Published

2025-03-13