Saudi Pro League unveils new four-year PACE funding model to boost competitiveness and global appeal
The Saudi Pro League (SPL) has announced a revamped four-year structure for its Player Acquisition Centre of Excellence (PACE) programme, introducing a performance-based funding model aimed at attracting elite talent while promoting sustainable sporting and commercial growth.
Under the new framework, only 22 per cent of central funding will be distributed equally among clubs, with the remaining allocation tied to performance metrics including league results, television viewership, and commercial success.
Specifically, 22 per cent of funds will be shared evenly across all clubs, while another 22 per cent will be allocated based on average league position over the past three seasons. A further 28 per cent will be linked to television audience figures, with the remaining 28 per cent tied to commercial performance during the same period.
The SPL is estimated to allocate around $2 billion in central funds per season to cover transfers, player wages, and agent commissions, although exact figures have not been officially confirmed by the Ministry of Sport or participating clubs.
Saudi Pro League Chief Executive Officer, Omar Mugharbel, said the focus has shifted beyond attracting players to sustaining long-term growth.
“The question is no longer whether players will join the SPL, but rather who is next,” Mugharbel said. “Our focus now is on strengthening and evolving the sustainable ecosystem already in place, one that supports long-term sporting and commercial success across the league.”
The updated PACE model signals a continued long-term commitment to investing in the SPL, even amid uncertainty over Saudi Arabia’s funding priorities across other sports.
According to the league, the programme aims to increase the SPL’s commercial value, enhance competitiveness, attract further investment, and support the development of young Saudi players. It also seeks to build the next generation of domestic talent alongside established international stars.
