Leaked WhatsApp messages reveal Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, was significantly involved in the takeover of Newcastle United FC by the Public Investment Fund, despite assurances of the fund’s independence from the Saudi government. Former Newcastle co-owner Amanda Staveley cautioned about Bin Salman’s patience and highlighted communication with the UK government to facilitate the deal, prompting scrutiny about governance and human rights issues surrounding Saudi ownership in football.
Recent revelations indicate that Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, played a significant role in the acquisition of Newcastle United FC by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), as suggested by leaked WhatsApp communications involving former minority co-owner Amanda Staveley. Staveley, who divested her 10% stake in July 2021, was instrumental in brokering the £305 million deal that was finalized in October 2021. This acquisition was contingent upon the Premier League receiving detailed assurances of the independence of PIF from the Saudi state. The leaked messages indicate a concerning level of intervention by Bin Salman, particularly with Staveley reportedly warning Mike Ashley’s representatives that “the Crown Prince is losing patience” with the negotiation process. In another message, she mentioned efforts to dissuade him from backing out of the deal. Notably, Staveley also mentioned communication from the UK Saudi ambassador to the Crown Prince, highlighting the potential influence of the UK government in facilitating this acquisition. The Premier League, while asserting the separation of PIF from the Saudi government, has faced scrutiny due to Bin Salman’s controversial background, including allegations of human rights abuses and involvement in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi — allegations that Bin Salman has denied. Despite these controversies, Staveley defended her interactions with the Crown Prince, emphasizing that her references to him were strictly within the context of his role at PIF. In addition to Staveley’s involvement, the UK government reportedly pressed for the deal’s completion, with former investment minister Lord Grimstone acknowledging a role in conveying preferences between the PIF and the Premier League, albeit asserting that he did not aim to influence the league’s autonomy. As the current ownership stands, PIF controls 85% of Newcastle United, with the Reuben Brothers owning the remaining 15%. Staveley’s strategic ascent to Newcastle’s ownership began with a crucial meeting with Yasir al-Rumayyan aboard Bin Salman’s yacht in 2019, catalyzing her long-held desire to invest in the club.
The Newcastle United takeover by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has been a subject of considerable scrutiny since its conclusion in October 2021. Amanda Staveley, who facilitated the acquisition, played a vital role in bridging negotiations between the PIF and former club owner Mike Ashley. The Premier League had mandated assurances that would ensure PIF operated independently from the Saudi government, a decision motivated by concerns over the human rights record of the Saudi administration. The involvement of Mohammed bin Salman, as both Crown Prince and chairman of the PIF, raised questions regarding the integrity of these assurances, particularly following serious allegations surrounding his governance.
In conclusion, the leaked communications from Amanda Staveley highlight the complex dynamics surrounding the Newcastle United takeover, particularly the significant influence of Mohammed bin Salman. While the Premier League provided assurances regarding the separation of PIF from the Saudi state, the messages suggest a more intricate involvement than initially understood. The ongoing discourse around the acquisition underscores the tensions between sports governance, international relations, and human rights considerations, raising critical questions about ownership in elite football.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
