PIF Takes Full Ownership of Big Four Saudi Clubs

The Ministry of Sport announced on 19 August 2026 that it has begun transferring the remaining 25% ownership stakes in four of the country's largest football clubs — Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr — from their non-profit foundations to the Public Investment Fund (PIF), following the completion of the required regulatory procedures.

The step raises PIF's ownership of the sports companies of Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli and Al-Nassr to 100%. Al-Hilal's structure is different, as PIF sold a 70% stake to Kingdom Holding Company earlier in 2026 and now retains a minority interest in the club.

As part of the transfer, the boards of directors of the clubs' non-profit entities are being dissolved. These foundations had previously held 25% of each club's company alongside PIF's 75% stake, an arrangement set during the initial phase of the project that began in June 2023.

Why it matters

The move falls under the broader Sports Clubs Investment and Privatization Project. In July 2024, the Council of Ministers approved a framework for privatizing several Saudi clubs and authorized a Supervisory Committee to issue privatization approvals.

For fans and residents, it is important to note that this is a regulatory and ownership restructuring step, not a public share offering. As of 21 August 2026, there are no published fees or prices for individual fans or general investors linked to this specific 25% transfer.

Ordinary residents and retail investors do not complete any Absher, Muqeem, Qiwa, Najiz, Nafath or Tawakkalna procedures to take part, as the transaction is strictly institutional between the Ministry of Sport, PIF and the clubs' non-profit entities. No official announcements have detailed any online application channels or fees for individuals to acquire ownership in these four clubs in connection with this transfer.

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