18 Ways in Which Saudi Arabia Bought the Club World Cup

They own a club, they sponsor the tournament, they provide the prize money, they own the media rights, they fly players in, and it's just the beginning,

The Club World Cup begins this weekend. Much has been made about the cozy relationship between FIFA and Saudi Arabia, but the full extent of Saudi entanglement in the 2025 FIFA CWC is staggering.

What follows is a detailed exposé of how Saudi Arabia’s wealth and influence have permeated nearly every facet of this expanded tournament. The tone is not accusatory of crimes per se, but the facts speak loudly: Saudi involvement is systemic, overt, and impossible to ignore. Each point is evidence-driven, highlighting a distinct connection that, taken together, shows how Saudi Arabia effectively “bought” a central role in the CWC’s present and future.

The FIFA CWC trophy on display at Stamford Bridge in London ahead of the 2025 tournament. Saudi Arabia’s influence looms behind the scenes of this gleaming prize. Source: FIFA.

1. A Saudi-Owned Club Is Competing on the Global Stage

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