Business of Sport Inter Milan becomes first club to get Saudi investment licence By Pramod Kumar October 17, 2024, 8:08 AM Inter Milan A Saudi Arabian government official and Inter Milan executives at the licence granting event Italy’s Inter Milan has become the first international football club to receive a licence in Saudi Arabia. The ministry of investment licence will support the club in extending its brand presence in the Middle East and growing its fanbase. Inter Milan, or Nerazzurri, will bring its expertise and experience as a top-level football club to the country. “Through promoting talent and sports culture, the Nerazzurri club aims to contribute positively to the country’s future ambitions,” the club said in a statement. World Cup and Expo wins divert funding to Riyadh Gulf sports wins are sidelined by the summer season Saudi Arabia adds soccer in North America to sports portfolio Inter Milan will open several academies across Saudi Arabia to help develop youth and women’s football and some of the the club’s “legends” will get involved in local events. “Through this licence, the club is committed to creating value for Saudi Arabia by supporting the development of its sporting sector and promoting the involvement of local businesses as part of our global network,” said Inter Milan’s corporate CEO Alessandro Antonello. Arabic-speaking fans following Inter Milan social media profiles exceed five million, making it the second-largest cluster in the club’s community. Register now: It’s easy and free AGBI registered members can access even more of our unique analysis and perspective on business and economics in the Middle East. Why sign uP Exclusive weekly email from our editor-in-chief Personalised weekly emails for your preferred industry sectors Read and download our insight packed white papers Access to our mobile app Prioritised access to live events Register for free Already registered? Sign in I’ll register later