Saudi Arabia Launches AI League to Advance Sports Ahead of 2034 FIFA World Cup

Reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies into sports, the Saudi Company for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI) is launching the AI League – a new competition running from February 10 to the end of April 2025, with a total prize pool of one million riyals.

This initiative strengthens AI’s role in revolutionizing sports and marks a significant leap forward for the industry.

The AI League aims to foster innovation, nurture talent in the sports sector, and elevate the Kingdom’s global competitiveness in sports. It will also play a key role in advancing data-driven decision-making, optimizing operational efficiency, and delivering an exceptional fan experience, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable sports ecosystem.

The virtual competition will spotlight the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in enhancing sports performance and supporting Saudi Arabia’s preparations to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Participants will compete across four key tracks: optimizing match strategies, developing smart sports venues and fan experiences, discovering sports talent, and advancing sports broadcasting and media.

The initiative is backed by the Ministry of Sports and SDAIA as main sponsors, alongside leading organizations from the sports and technology sectors.

Mubarak Alwadaani, Chief Commercial Officer at SCAI, stated, "With the AI League, SCAI is fostering a dynamic environment where innovation thrives, leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies to propel the sports sector forward. This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of reshaping the global sports landscape through innovation and excellence. In collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and SDAIA, we invite talented developers, startups, and entrepreneurs to join the AI League and showcase their expertise to help shape the future of sports."

The launch of the AI League reinforces SCAI's pivotal role in accelerating industry growth, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for advanced technologies, and driving AI-powered solutions that create a meaningful impact across multiple sectors.

Aspiring innovators and sports-tech enthusiasts across Saudi Arabia and the Middle East can explore the details of the competition and register at scai.sa/AiLeague.