Christiano Ronaldo has played a central role in the evolution of the Saudi Pro League since his arrival in Al Nassrmaking the competition a global attraction for fans and elite players alike. While Saudi Arabia will also host the 2034 World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino provided a bold assessment of the competition’s trajectory and its meteoric rise on the international stage.
Along with signing global stars, Saudi Arabia has shifted its focus to long-term football development, including major infrastructure investments in the run-up to the 2034 World Cup and the construction of new stadiums. Infantino has played an important role in raising the country’s global profile The FIFA president now sees enormous potential for the Saudi Pro League‘s continued growth.
In an interview with Arabic newsInfantino went further than praising Saudi Arabia’s football ambitions, stating that “the kingdom has become an important hub on the global football stage.He followed that by making a striking prediction about the future of the league, adding that iton its way to becoming one of the top three leagues in the world.”
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Infantino highlighted the rapid development of the league in recent years, noting how it has gained significant international visibility. He described it as “a domestic competition with a global touch”, a transformation driven largely by Cristiano Ronaldo and a growing list of high-profile signings from world football.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr FC celebrates his goal against Al Okhdood.
In addition to the professional league, Infantino also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s progress at multiple levels of the sport. including improvements to the national team set-up and extensive investment in youth development. He concluded by highlighting the growing emphasis on women’s football, saying that the game in the Kingdom “ready for further growthThanks to increased institutional support.
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Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr breaks incredible Saudi Pro League record after victory over Al Okhdood
Infantino and the squad for the 2034 World Cup
In another controversial decision after Qatar’s hosting of the 2022 World CupFIFA officially awarded the 2034 tournament to Saudi Arabia in December 2024. Although the choice has drawn criticism from sections of fans and media, Infantino firmly believes the decision was the right one.
Reflecting on the selection during his Arab News interview, the FIFA The president described Saudi Arabia as “a hospitable country with a rich culture, delicious cuisine and special people.” He believes that in nine years’ time this combination will play a key role in ensuring a successful World Cup.
Looking ahead, Infantino also offered a bold take on Saudi Arabia’s chances at the 2026 World Cup, where the team will share Group H with Spain, Uruguay and Cape Verde. Citing their stunning victory over Argentina in 2022, he suggested the national team could be able to pull off another upset against elite opponents like The Red And The Celeste.
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