The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) has sold its majority stake in Al-Hilal to Kingdom Holding Company, transferring 70 percent of the club at a valuation of about 1.4 billion Saudi riyals (roughly $373 million).

Prince Alwaleed bin Talal framed the acquisition as a belief in sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for national development, stressing the preservation of Al-Hilal’s history and identity while pursuing growth.

The move is part of a broader Saudi strategy to monetize sports assets and attract private capital under a five-year plan focused on domestic objectives and redeploying capital within the economy.

The evolving ownership structure could give clubs more flexibility in transfers and commercial partnerships, potentially reshaping competitive dynamics in the Saudi Pro League.

Newcastle United has longstanding links with Al-Hilal, having trained at their facilities during a 2022 tour and played friendlies together, highlighting enduring ties between the clubs.

Karim Benzema’s association with a club under consideration for ownership changes underscores how top players remain intertwined with shifting financial and structural landscapes.

LIV Golf maintains its planned 2026 schedule, with its Mexico City event set to begin later in the week, amid questions about future funding from the PIF.

As more clubs change hands and the PIF shifts toward minority stakes or strategic partnerships, high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo could see increased influence in ownership dynamics.

Al-Hilal remains one of Asia’s most successful clubs, with a storied history of league titles and AFC Champions League triumphs, and the parent Al Hilal Club Company, established in 2023, oversees its operations.

The Al-Hilal sale signals a transition toward a company-structured model under private ownership while retaining strong backing from its backers and a large regional fan base.

Cristiano Ronaldo acquired a 15% stake in Al-Nassr in mid-2025 and there is ongoing consideration of increasing his stake or bringing in external investors as ownership structures evolve.