The Intelligence from The Economist

In the big leagues now: Saudi Arabia’s push into sport

10 snips
Aug 11, 2023
Miranda Mitra, International editor at The Economist, and Ana Lankas, a Latin America correspondent, discuss Saudi Arabia's ambitious sports investments under Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, aimed at modernizing the nation despite criticism over human rights. They delve into Brazil's economic revival under Lula, highlighting a shift from investor skepticism to optimism, buoyed by tax reforms and credit upgrades. The conversation also touches on the revolutionary impact of first-person-view drones in modern warfare, showcasing their advantages in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
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INSIGHT

Social Impact of Sports

  • Saudi Arabia's sports investments have social elements, including promoting women's sports.
  • This aligns with Vision 2030's goal of greater female workforce participation and attracting female visitors.
INSIGHT

Financial Risks

  • The financial success of Saudi Arabia's sports investments faces risks.
  • Overpaying stars and the small domestic audience present challenges, mirroring China's struggles.
INSIGHT

Reputational Backlash

  • Saudi Arabia's sports investments risk backlash due to its human rights record, including the Khashoggi murder.
  • These actions could overshadow any positive attention from sports, highlighting negative aspects.
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