Saudi football privatization program takes another step forward. Kingdom Holding Company (KHC) has finalized the acquisition of a 70% majority stake in Al-Hilal. The sovereign wealth fund Public Investment Fund (PIF) sold this share for 840 million Saudi riyals (224 million USD). The transfer, agreed in April and officially completed on Tuesday, leaves PIF with a 30% stake in the Riyadh-based club. Al-Hilal’s valuation now stands at 1.2 billion riyals (319 million USD).
A deal amid rising valuations
The initial agreement valued the club at approximately 1.4 billion riyals (372 million USD). This acquisition is part of Saudi football’s privatization drive aimed at modernizing the sector. Al-Hilal, a historic club in the kingdom, has restructured its capital under the influence of new private investors. The transaction marks a turning point in the club’s governance, now majority-owned by KHC. Financial details confirm the growing attractiveness of Saudi football, driven by massive investments. Kingdom Holding, led by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, reinforces its key role in this transformation. The club, now valued at over one billion riyals, demonstrates strengthened economic health.
PIF retains a minority stake but keeps a strategic role
Despite selling its majority, PIF retains a 30% stake in Al-Hilal. This strategic decision allows the sovereign wealth fund to maintain a connection with the club while relinquishing operational control. The club’s valuation, reduced from 1.4 billion to 1.2 billion riyals, reflects a slight discount linked to the restructuring of shares. However, the deal remains a success for PIF, which realizes significant capital gains on its initial investment. The club, now 70% owned by Kingdom Holding, benefits from increased financial support. This transaction follows other recent moves in Saudi football, where foreign investments are multiplying. Al-Hilal, already one of the country’s most popular clubs, could further enhance its international appeal.
Sophie Bartega · 2 septembre 2026 · 2 min de lecture
