LaLiga President: Those Not Seeing Saudi League’s Progress Are Blind

LaLiga President Javier Tebas (Asharq Al-Awsat)

LaLiga President Javier Tebas revealed in an exclusive interview with Asharq Al-Awsat that he has unequivocally changed his perspective on sports in Saudi Arabia.
This shift follows a negative position that Tebas had held from years ago.
Tebas attributed the primary reason for this change of heart to his firsthand experience during a visit to Saudi Arabia, where he closely observed and actively participated in ongoing initiatives.
The LaLiga president characterized those who fail to recognize Saudi sports initiatives, the desire for improvement, and the overall commitment to advancing football and sports as “blind.”
“I previously spoke about sports washing in Saudi Arabia,” reminded Tebas in his remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat.
“I remember, it was about six years ago in London, and it's clear that my opinion changed solely through visiting the Kingdom,” he commented on his change of heart.
“I wasn't aware of it before. I believe that when discussing the Kingdom, you have to come here to realize that there has been a lot of progress, a lot of change,” explained Tebas.
“Well, that was six years ago in London, and I changed my opinion after the visit,” he affirmed.
“When I said that at the time, I didn't know much about Saudi Arabia, its plans, and its ideas,” noted the LaLiga president.
Tebas pointed to implemented agreements between the league in Spain and the Saudi Ministry of Sports to enhance academies and schools.
“We have begun executing agreements with the Saudi Ministry of Sports, concentrating on the development of academies and schools,” said Tebas.
“Despite being in its early stages, this initiative, initiated several months ago, is showing promising growth,” he clarified.
“We are optimistic about achieving further success in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports,” asserted Tebas.
He emphasized these projects as crucial for the development of Saudi sports and the qualification of personnel.
Tebas also highlighted collaborative efforts with Saudi Arabia to cultivate Saudi football talents, preparing them for the 2034 World Cup, an event the Kingdom aspires to host.
“Initiatives are already underway, and we are currently planning a trip for young players to the LaLiga Football Academy in Madrid,” revealed Tebas.
“Our clear objective is to groom talents for the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia,” he added.
Aِdditionally, the LaLiga head revealed that he would have accepted an executive position in Saudi sports if offered, had he not been elected president of the Spanish football association.
He expressed confidence in the Saudis’ capabilities in their sports, particularly in the nation’s foremost popular game, football.