NEOM, a sustainable city project in Saudi Arabia, has joined forces with the Rajasthan Royals, a top Indian cricket team, as their principal partner. This collaboration aims to elevate the sport within the Kingdom by providing opportunities for both men and women, fostering young talent, and establishing a strong cricketing ecosystem.
Building on a successful 2023 pilot program, the partnership sees the Rajasthan Royals sporting NEOM’s logo on their jerseys during the 2024 and 2025 Indian Premier League seasons. This collaboration will not only raise awareness of NEOM globally but also contribute to developing a vibrant and inclusive cricket community in Saudi Arabia.
The partnership extends beyond branding, focusing on development. NEOM, in collaboration with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, will offer cricket programs for all genders and age groups within the city. This initiative aligns with the national efforts to expand the sport’s reach within the Kingdom.
Expressing their enthusiasm, key figures from both sides emphasized the partnership’s potential. HRH Prince Saud bin Mishal, Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, hailed it as a significant step towards promoting cricket across the country. Jan Paterson, Managing Director of NEOM Sport, highlighted the collaboration’s role in promoting social development through sports.
Manoj Badale, Lead Owner of Rajasthan Royals, emphasized the shared commitment to societal impact. He acknowledged the partnership’s contribution to NEOM’s vision and expressed excitement about contributing to the sport’s growth in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the partnership aims to foster connections between NEOM and the team’s passionate Indian fans.
Looking beyond cricket, the partnership also seeks to establish NEOM as a global sports hub. This includes knowledge transfer initiatives like cricket leadership training and coach development programs for the NEOM workforce. Ultimately, this collaboration strives to contribute to NEOM’s dynamic economy and enhance the livability for its residents.
