NEOM: NEOM, the sustainable development taking shape in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, announced it has been appointed as principal partner of Rajasthan Royals, one of India’s leading T20 cricket league teams.

Under the terms of the agreement, Rajasthan Royals will sport NEOM’s corporate brand logo on the chest of all official team clothing during the India Premier League in 2024 and 2025.

“We are delighted to welcome NEOM on board as our principal partner. This landmark deal, emblematic of our global reach, national appeal as a franchise and cricketing expertise, signifies a shared commitment towards creating a positive societal impact,” Manoj Badale, lead owner of Rajasthan Royals, said.

“Over the past year, our collaboration has not only elevated cricket within NEOM through the strategic implementation of our workforce cricket program 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, which is being driven by the Saudi Arabian government and the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation,” he added.

“This partnership also provides us with the opportunity to work as a conduit for fostering connections between NEOM and our passionate Indian supporters.”

The partnership builds on the success of a 2023 pilot program, with this year’s initiative marking another step forward in NEOM’s commitment to nurturing a physically active and healthy society.

Its work with both Rajasthan Royals and the SACF will enable NEOM to provide cricket opportunities for men and women, supporting young Saudi talent to excel in the sport.

Prince Saud bin Mishal Al-Saud, chairman of the SACF, said: “We are thrilled to see the formalization 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.”

Jan Paterson, managing director of NEOM Sport, said: “Following a successful pilot program 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 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.”