As the UK government announces plans for an independent football regulator, how well governed and regulated is sport internationally?

In this episode we look specifically at how Saudi Arabia is extending its global geopolitical reach through football, golf, F1 and esports, despite its well documented human rights abuses. 

The repressive regime of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman - or MBS - has effectively been guaranteed the right to host the 2034 soccer World Cup after its only rival Australia dropped out.

This fits with Saudi Arabia’s plan to 'sportswash' its reputation - and exercise political power, too.

Adrian Goldberg is joined by Stanis Elsborg who’s been investigating the Riyadh government for Play The Game an organisation based at Danish Institute for Sports Studies.

Produced in Birmingham by Adrian Goldberg and Harvey White.

Funded by subscriptions to the Byline Times.

Made by We Bring Audio for Byline Times.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices