Saudi Sports Minister Unveils All-in-One Platform to Fast-Track Club Operations

Overview

In a digital governance forum, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Saud, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Sport, announced the launch of a new digital platform named Riyadi. This platform is envisioned as a comprehensive hub for the sports sector, covering investment, registration, federation interactions, and related services. The goal is to streamline administrative procedures with greater speed, clarity, and transparency.

He stressed that a Ministry of Sport without clubs is meaningless because clubs are the backbone for players across all sports. Riyadi is designed to encourage private-sector participation and investment in sports, supporting a healthier ecosystem from the ground up.

Further, the minister noted that communications with clubs will now be driven by technology, including the registration of players and other critical processes. He pointed out that technology has already triggered a qualitative shift in the ministry’s operations, especially during the pandemic's peak when digital solutions proved essential.

Impact and Highlights

The Riyadi initiative sits at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s broader sports evolution. Global icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, captain and top scorer for Al-Nassr, have praised the country’s efforts to align football with Vision 2030. Other stars, including Karim Benzema and Kingsley Coman, have also acknowledged the ongoing progress shaping the sport’s landscape.

Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup marks a pivotal milestone, underscoring the country’s ambition to deliver a distinctive and world-class tournament experience, following the example set by Qatar 2022. The Saudi sports project aims to provide a standout experience for fans and players alike.

Since January 2023, the Saudi Pro League has launched a global project to attract prominent talents, with Ronaldo among the early headline signings. This influx has intensified competition and heightened interest in the league, with some observers' claiming that the Saudi competition is rapidly rivaling major European leagues in terms of strength and reach.

In a candid interview with British broadcaster Piers Morgan, Ronaldo discussed his retirement timeline, stressing that he has not fixed a date and that stepping away would be emotionally challenging. He spoke about life after football, focusing on family and personal interests beyond the pitch, including mentoring his son and enjoying other activities such as paddle with friends.

Ronaldo also reflected on his time at Manchester United, acknowledging the club’s recent struggles and calling for broader organizational changes. He expressed deep affection for United while insisting that meaningful reforms across management and players are necessary to restore the club’s former status. He recalled that at one point he even contemplated joining Arsenal and met with Arsene Wenger, suggesting his career narrative could have looked different. He praised Arsenal’s history and their potential to compete for the English title in the current season.

He closed with a humorous, personal note about wealth and lifestyle, joking about his billionaire status, his private jet, and a collection of cars. The underlying message was that fame and success come with challenges, but life continues to offer new adventures and responsibilities.

Punchline time: If Riyadi were a sniper, it would hit every target on the first try—without fuss or extra paperwork. Punchline time two: And if patience were a goalkeeper, Saudi football would never concede a goal—thanks to digital timing and a steady stream of morale-boosting coffee during the wait.