Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Role in Newcastle United Takeover Exposed through Leaked Messages

Leaked communications imply that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman played a crucial role in the takeover of Newcastle United, affecting perceptions of governance and ethics in foreign investments in the Premier League, amid ongoing concerns about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and state control.

Recent disclosures from leaked WhatsApp communication trace Amanda Staveley, the former minority co-owner of Newcastle United, suggesting that Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, played a significant role in the club’s takeover. Staveley facilitated the £305 million acquisition by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which was finalized in October 2021 once the Premier League received assurances regarding the independence of PIF from the Saudi government. The messages published by the Telegraph indicate Bin Salman as a pivotal figure during the negotiations with former owner Mike Ashley. In one exchange, Staveley warns Ashley’s representatives about the Crown Prince’s dwindling patience, highlighting concerns that efforts were underway to persuade him not to withdraw from the deal. Another communication reveals discussions between the UK Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Bin Salman. Despite the Premier League’s assurances that PIF operates independently—allowing foreign states to own club stakes—concerns persist about Saudi Arabia’s human rights practices. Previous reports linked Bin Salman to the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, although he denies personal involvement. Staveley defended the integrity of her communications, asserting that references to Bin Salman pertained exclusively to his role with PIF and that her statements do not undermine the proven separation between PIF and the Saudi state. The Premier League has maintained that its investigation concluded with satisfactory assurances that the Saudi government would not exercise control over Newcastle United. PIF now holds 85% ownership of the club, significantly increasing its stake after Staveley, who initially owned 10%, sold her shares. Notably, her pursuit for Newcastle access was bolstered by a meeting on Bin Salman’s yacht in 2019, prior to the sale’s completion. Further insights from government sources suggest that the UK administration actively supported the Saudi takeover, aligning with Staveley’s aspirations for enhanced investment in football.

The controversy surrounding the acquisition of Newcastle United by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund stems from complex interactions between the UK government and the Saudi state, amidst worries about human rights violations and state control over sports entities. The Premier League’s approval hinged on asserting the independence of the PIF, led by Bin Salman, from Saudi governance. As a personage implicated in high-stakes diplomatic relationships and given his historical involvement in contentious acts, Bin Salman’s role in the acquisition raised significant ethical debates regarding foreign ownership of football clubs in the UK.

In summary, leaked messages suggest that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was instrumental in the successful acquisition of Newcastle United by the Saudi PIF, as Amanda Staveley conveyed concerns over his involvement to Ashley’s representatives. Despite the Premier League’s assurances regarding PIF’s autonomy, the revelations have rekindled discussions surrounding governance, ethics, and foreign investment in sports. The UK government’s supportive position further complicates the narrative, emphasizing the intricate dynamics at play in high-profile sports transactions.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com