NEOM, the future sustainable city of Saudi Arabia, has been named the principal partner of Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL).

Rajasthan Royals and NEOM signed a two-year contract, under which the winners of the inaugural IPL in 2008 and runners-up in 2022 will sport NEOM’s logo on the chest of all official team clothing during the 2024 and 2025 season of IPL.

Rajasthan Royals deepens ties with NEOM

NEOM was involved with Rajasthan Royals last year as part of a pilot programme and decided to take their partnership further.

As part of the partnership, Rajasthan Royals and the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation will enable NEOM to provide opportunities for men and women, nurturing young Saudi talent in the sport.

The IPL is one of the most-watched sporting events in the world.

Jan Paterson, Managing Director of NEOM Sport, commented: “Following a successful pilot programme last year, we are excited to take our partnership with the Royals to the next level as a principal partner and continue growing cricket as a tool for social growth.

“Working with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation and Rajasthan Royals will enable us to provide access to cricket for men, women, girls and boys alike, across NEOM. This will pave the way for development at an individual level and contribute to the growth of the sport across the kingdom, while amplifying the NEOM brand globally.”

Manoj Badale, Lead Owner of Rajasthan Royals, added: “This landmark deal, emblematic of our global reach and national appeal as a franchise and cricketing expertise, signifies a shared commitment towards creating a positive societal impact.

“Over the past year, our collaboration has not only elevated cricket within NEOM through the strategic implementation of our workforce cricket programme but has also contributed significantly to their mission of fostering a physically active and inclusive society. We are excited to be the flag bearers of cricket in NEOM, with the potential to contribute to the overall growth of the sport across the kingdom.”

Prince Saud bin Mishal Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, said: “We are thrilled to see the formalisation of NEOM’s cricket partnership with Rajasthan Royals, which holds great promise for the growth of the sport across Saudi Arabia. It’s important that we continue to develop a vibrant cricket community that can be enjoyed by all.”

Sport is an essential part of living in NEOM and the partnership with Rajasthan Royals highlights its aspiration to become a global hub for sport by partnering with renowned sporting brands.

NEOM is a region in northwest Saudi Arabia on the Red Sea. It will include hyperconnected, cognitive cities, ports and enterprise zones, research centres, sports and entertainment venues and tourist destinations.