Newcastle’s Carabao Cup Triumph: A Blend of Sport and Politics

Newcastle United's recent victory in the Carabao Cup has been a significant event, not just for the team's performance but also due to the broader implications surrounding their ownership. The win against Manchester United in the final has been celebrated as a feelgood story for the club and its fans, but it also casts a spotlight on the controversial Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, which owns the club.

The triumph has been described as part of a strategic PR move by the Saudi regime, aiming to enhance its global image amidst criticisms of human rights abuses. The victory parade and the involvement of Sela, a Saudi events company linked to the ownership, underscore the political dimensions of this sporting achievement. Despite the joy of the win, there's an underlying tension about the use of sports to polish the image of what some refer to as a 'dictator state'.

On the pitch, Newcastle's performance was commendable, with statistics highlighting their dominance over Manchester United. This victory not only boosts morale but also solidifies Newcastle's position in English football, promising an exciting future under their current management and ownership structure.

• Carabao Cup
• Newcastle United
• Saudi Arabia

X talks about this news