Women Empowerment in Saudi Football
RIYADH: Women are making strides in various industries as Saudi Arabia prioritizes diversity and inclusion, and the football sector is no exception.
Female Football Players on the Rise
Currently, there are 1,100 registered female football players in Saudi clubs across leagues, regional training centers, and national teams. The Women’s Football Department is focusing on grassroots development with upcoming local competitions, including the Premier League.
Growth and Transformation
Aalia Al-Rasheed, head of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation’s Women’s Football Department, highlighted the transformation in the country with Vision 2030, reporting a 150 percent increase in women’s participation since 2015. The game is evolving daily.
Celebrating Champions
Al-Nassr celebrated their championship victory against Al-Ittihad at Al-Awwal Park Stadium with fireworks, capping off the 2023-2024 Premier League season on a high note.
Empowering Women in Football
Female leaders in the football industry gathered at Hiwar, PepsiCo’s annual event for women empowerment, to honor the women breaking boundaries in Saudi football. The event featured a panel discussion moderated by Mo Islam, with industry experts sharing their experiences and insights.
Inspiring Stories
Star player Sara Khalid reflected on her team’s international success, winning the premier league twice in a row, and her role in leading Saudi women’s football onto the global stage. Every decision she makes carries weight as she aims to inspire others.
Investment in Women’s Sports
Coach Kelly Lindsey emphasized the importance of creating balance within teams, blending physical preparation with cultural understanding. She praised Saudi Arabia’s investment in women’s sports, with significant funding allocated to women’s football programs.
Corporate Support
PepsiCo. and the SAFF announced Lay’s sponsorship of the Saudi Women’s Premier League, aligning with the company’s vision of diversity and inclusion. The sponsorship aims to empower Saudi women to pursue their dreams in various fields.