Simon Chadwick

  • A visual representation of investments made by Saudi Arabia in sports

    Mapping the Politics of Saudi Arabia’s Sports Investments

    Saudi Arabia continues to make news with its investments in sports with the Saudi Pro League football clubs recently privatised, LIV Golf agreeing to a merger with the PGA and DP Tours, and a host of player transfers to the country’s top football clubs. Many observers have been shocked by the pace, reach, and unexpected […]
    Simon Chadwick and Paul Widdop/
    May 29, 2025
  • Behind the Pitch: How the UEFA Champions League Final Reflects Sino-Arab Geopolitics

    European club football’s season is set to culminate with the UEFA men’s Champions League final being staged in Istanbul, Manchester City of the English Premier League facing Italian Serie A team Internazionale of Milan in the competition’s deciding match. On-field, it should be an action-packed showcase for European football, off-field it is less likely to be the […]
    Simon Chadwick and Paul Widdop/
    May 22, 2024
  • Riyadh, Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo poses with AlNassr Football Club President Mossali Al-Muammar at press conference in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on January 3, 2023. Photo by Balkis Press/ABACAPRESS.COM Credit: Abaca Press/Alamy Live News

    Saudi Arabia, China, Red Sea Geopolitics & The 2030 World Cup

    In March 2021, a container ship – the Ever Given – ran aground in Egypt’s Suez Canal following stormy weather. This caused a significant obstruction to one of the world’s busiest trade routes, which lasted for almost a week. By the time the Ever Given was freed, there were more than three hundred and sixty […]
    Simon Chadwick/
    May 22, 2024