Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has made substantial investments in sports, with the kingdom positioning itself as a growing force in the global sporting arena. The country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has been a key player in funding high-profile sporting events, acquiring international sports teams, and attracting renowned athletes to compete within its borders. This push to establish a strong presence in the sports world, however, has sparked significant criticism from various advocacy groups, including women’s rights organizations and LGBTQ activists, who claim that Saudi Arabia is using its sports investments to “sportswash” its image.
The term “sportswashing” has gained traction in recent years as a way to describe the strategy of using sports as a tool to distract from a country’s controversial human rights practices. Critics argue that by pouring substantial financial resources into sports, Saudi Arabia is attempting to divert attention away from its domestic policies, particularly those related to gender equality, the treatment of women, and the rights of LGBTQ individuals. These groups point to the kingdom’s long-standing record on human rights as a stark contrast to its efforts to create a more progressive image through sports.
Despite these accusations, Saudi authorities have firmly denied any wrongdoing and continue to assert that the kingdom is not involved in human rights abuses. The government argues that it upholds national security through its laws, which it insists are designed to protect the stability and safety of the nation. Saudi officials maintain that the country’s legal framework ensures the protection of its citizens’ rights and that recent social reforms, including those related to women’s rights, are a sign of progress.
While the kingdom’s commitment to sports development remains strong, with high-profile events like Formula E and the LIV Golf series gaining international attention, the ongoing debate over its human rights record shows no sign of abating. The growing divide between Saudi Arabia’s ambitions in sports and the criticisms surrounding its internal policies continues to fuel a complex conversation about the intersection of global sport, politics, and human rights
Gathered by: Onoro Promise Edesiri