{ "id": 11867, "date": "2026-06-13T12:13:58", "date_gmt": "2026-06-13T09:13:58", "guid": { "rendered": "https:\/\/scbcouncil.com\/?p=11867" }, "modified": "2026-06-13T12:14:00", "modified_gmt": "2026-06-13T09:14:00", "slug": "from-luring-stars-to-hosting-the-world-cup-saudi-arabia-has-spent-billions-to-disrupt-soccer", "status": "publish", "type": "post", "link": "https:\/\/scbcouncil.com\/en\/from-luring-stars-to-hosting-the-world-cup-saudi-arabia-has-spent-billions-to-disrupt-soccer\/", "title": { "rendered": "From luring stars to hosting the World Cup, Saudi Arabia has spent billions to disrupt soccer" }, "content": { "rendered": "

Saudi Arabia\u2019s rapid rise in global football began with its shock victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup and accelerated through massive investments in the sport. The Kingdom attracted stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Neymar, while securing hosting rights for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. As part of its broader economic diversification strategy, Saudi Arabia is now focusing on developing local talent through increased youth investment and training programs. Under new coach Georgios Donis, the national team hopes to make a strong impact at the 2026 World Cup.<\/p>", "protected": false }, "excerpt": { "rendered": "

Saudi Arabia\u2019s rapid rise in global football began with its shock victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup and accelerated through massive investments in the sport. The Kingdom attracted stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Neymar, while securing hosting rights for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. 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