A new Netflix series showcases Saudi football’s rise, spotlighting star players and packed stadiums ahead of the World Cup 2034 vote.
Netflix’s Fresh Take on Saudi Football
The series, “Saudi Pro League: Kickoff,” hits screens just weeks before the FIFA Congress decides on Saudi Arabia’s World Cup 2034 bid. It offers viewers an inside look at how the league has evolved with international stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema gracing the pitch. These players aren’t just there for the game; their presence signals Saudi Arabia’s push to elevate its status in global sports.
The show highlights historic rivalries and nearly century-old clubs, emphasizing the deep-rooted passion Saudis have for football. Fans see scenes of enthusiastic supporters filling stadiums, waving flags, and cheering for their favorite teams. Despite this, average attendance has dipped slightly, from 9,701 last season to 8,158 this year, according to Transfermarkt.
Human Stories Behind the Headlines
One standout moment features 17-year-old Talal Haji from Ittihad. Walking through Jeddah’s old city, he dreams aloud about playing in the World Cup on home soil a decade from now. “I am very proud of how my future looks,” he says, clad in a traditional thobe. His optimism reflects the series’ aim to humanize Saudi football beyond the glitz of big-name signings.
Danyel Reiche from Georgetown University praises the show for its authentic portrayal. “The main accomplishment of the series is that it’s kind of humanising Saudi football,” she says. Reiche believes the series moves beyond the usual narrative focused solely on financial gains, offering a more relatable perspective for global audiences.
The Bigger Picture: Beyond the Game
Saudi Arabia’s investment in sports extends beyond football. The kingdom hosts elite tennis tournaments, heavyweight boxing matches, and Formula One races. However, these efforts haven’t been without controversy. Critics argue that such events serve as a distraction from human rights issues, labeling them as “sportswashing.” Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has openly dismissed these claims, emphasizing the economic benefits of hosting international sports events.
Foreign stars in the Pro League are part of a broader strategy to reshape Saudi Arabia’s image internationally. According to Kristian Coates Ulrichsen from Rice University, the series might not sway staunch critics but is likely designed to intrigue a broader audience curious about Saudi’s World Cup bid.
Challenges on the Horizon
While the series paints an optimistic picture, challenges remain for the Saudi Pro League. Abdulrahman Ghareeb of Al Nassr notes the mixed impact of foreign players. “The influence of foreign players in the league has both positive and negative impacts,” he says. On one hand, they bring attention and elevate the level of play; on the other, they can overshadow local talent and affect team dynamics.
- Attendance Trends: Despite high-profile signings, crowd numbers have not consistently risen.
- Local Talent Development: Balancing foreign stars with nurturing homegrown players remains a key issue.
- Economic Impact: Hosting international stars is expensive and requires sustainable financial planning.
| Season | Average Attendance |
|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 9,701 |
| 2023-24 | 8,158 |
Officials from the Saudi Pro League mention that Netflix had full editorial control over the series, ensuring that the narrative aligns with their vision of growth and development. However, the true impact of the show on Saudi Arabia’s World Cup prospects will unfold once the FIFA vote takes place.
