US-based private equity firm Enfield Investment Partners has announced a strategic partnership with SURJ Sports Investment, the sports arm of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), alongside the launch of a new $4 billion global sports investment fund.
As part of the agreement, Enfield will establish a physical presence in Saudi Arabia, operating from SURJ’s offices in Riyadh. Jake Silverstein, Enfield’s chair and co-founder, emphasized the significance of this move, stating, "The transformation of Saudi Arabia has revolutionized the global sports landscape, and with the FIFA World Cup confirmed for 2034, this journey has only just begun. As part of our collaboration, alongside our Washington, D.C. headquarters, we will establish a presence in SURJ’s Riyadh offices to further support our shared ambitions and foster bilateral growth."
The $4 billion sports fund aims to identify and capitalize on co-investment opportunities across various territories, with a focus on enhancing the reach and impact of sports globally. Enfield’s expansion into Saudi Arabia underscores the Kingdom’s ambitious vision to position itself as a global sports hub under its Vision 2030 framework.
Danny Townsend, chief executive of SURJ, expressed confidence in the partnership, highlighting the mutual objectives of both entities. "In Enfield, we have a trusted partner with whom we will together seek to drive forward the future of sport in ways that meet the ever-changing needs of fans and audiences around the world."
Saudi Arabia’s aggressive investments in the sports sector have been making headlines, with significant strides in football, motorsport, and esports. The collaboration with Enfield is expected to further solidify the Kingdom’s position as a leader in global sports investments, with a strategic focus on long-term growth and innovation.
This partnership is poised to unlock new opportunities for both entities, fostering deeper collaboration and investment in sports assets worldwide. As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its sports portfolio, the Enfield-SURJ alliance is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry.