FIFA President Gianni Infantino has declared that the Saudi Pro League is on a clear trajectory to become one of the top three football leagues in the world. In an exclusive interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Infantino praised Saudi Arabia's rapid transformation into a major global football hub, highlighting the dynamic developments that have attracted world-class stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and created a domestically based league with international appeal.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has declared that the Saudi Pro League is on a clear trajectory to become one of the top three football leagues in the world. In an exclusive interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Infantino praised Saudi Arabia's rapid transformation into a major global football hub, highlighting the dynamic developments that have attracted world-class stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and created a domestically based league with international appeal.
Infantino also commended the broader progress of Saudi football at all levels. He pointed to the senior national team's historic victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup as evidence of their growing capability, suggesting they are fully capable of delivering similar performances against top contenders like Spain in the 2026 tournament. He noted that this advancement extends beyond the senior side, encompassing youth categories and a women's game poised for significant growth due to increased institutional support.
Looking ahead to Saudi Arabia's role as host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, Infantino expressed his personal enthusiasm for the event. He described the Kingdom as a welcoming nation with a rich culture, delicious cuisine, and remarkable people, all factors he believes will contribute to the tournament's success. His comments underscore a strong vote of confidence in Saudi Arabia's sporting infrastructure and its ambitious vision for the future of football, both domestically and on the world stage.
