Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has announced the launch of its “She’s Next in Football” program in Saudi Arabia. Building on the success of the She’s Next programs in fashion and gaming in the Kingdom, this initiative is designed to empower and support women footballers in the Kingdom through mentorship, training, and exclusive opportunities with world-class football experts. In partnership with Saudi Awwal Bank and AC Milan Women, this program provides female athletes with a platform to develop their skills, gain mentorship, and experience world-class football training.
Women football players in Saudi Arabia are invited to apply for She’s Next in Football by completing and submitting the form available on Visa’s website, until May 5.
The finalists will be announced on May 21, and will participate in a training camp in Riyadh, where they will receive expert training and a certificate signed by Elisabet Spina, head of women’s football, AC Milan, and Suzanne Bakker, women’s coach, AC Milan. They will also have the unique opportunity to train with Farah Jefry, a distinguished Saudi footballer and midfielder for Al-Ittihad Women’s Football Club in Jeddah, who serves as the program’s brand ambassador.
In addition, the winner of the program will travel to Milan and enjoy a “Training with the PRO” two-week experience at the Puma House of Football, home to the women’s team’s training center, where they will train with professional athletes and coaches. The runner-up will receive a VIP visit to AC Milan’s training facilities, gaining behind-the-scenes access to one of football’s most renowned development programs.
Ali Bailoun, Visa’s regional general manager for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman, said: “Women are driving change across industries, sports, and business, shaping the future through their contributions. As women’s football continues to grow, new pathways are opening for female athletes to access professional training, resources, and career development. As one of the world’s most active sponsors of women’s football, Visa is committed to strengthening the sport’s ecosystem at every level. By partnering with AC Milan Women and SAB, we are contributing to the long-term development of women’s football in the Kingdom. Investing in women’s sports is an investment in inclusion and economic empowerment, ensuring female athletes receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve.”
Rania Alsharyoufi, chief human resources officer, SAB, said: “At SAB, we believe in the power of sports as a driver for empowerment, inclusion, and long-term growth. Our partnership with Visa and AC Milan Women in the She’s Next Football program reflects our commitment to fostering opportunities for women in Saudi Arabia, helping them reach their full potential on and off the field. By supporting initiatives that promote skills, mentorship, and visibility, we are proud to contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic future for women’s football in the Kingdom.”
Spina, AC Milan’s head of women’s football, added: “At AC Milan, we are deeply committed to fostering the growth of women’s football worldwide, and we are proud to be part of the She’s Next in Football initiative. As a club with a rich history in developing and promoting the women’s game, we believe in the power of football to inspire and empower.
“This program represents a unique opportunity to support the next generation of female footballers in Saudi Arabia, providing them with world-class training, mentorship, and a pathway to grow in the sport.”
Jefry said: “I’m genuinely energized by this initiative and the remarkable opportunity it presents to ignite the passion of aspiring football players, empowering them to reach new heights in their athletic journey.”
