Italian Ambassador: Growing Sports Partnership Between Saudi Arabia and Italy Reflects Shared Vision in Investment and Innovation

The Ambassador of the Italian Republic to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Mr. Carlo Baldocci, affirmed that Riyadh’s hosting of the second edition of the “Social Football Summit – Saudi Edition” marks a strategic milestone that reflects the deepening partnership between Saudi Arabia and Italy in the sports sector and strengthens cooperation in related economic and investment domains.

This came during his address at the opening of the summit, held in cooperation with the Ministry of Sports, with the participation of representatives from Italy’s Serie A League, alongside senior sports and investment officials, decision-makers from both countries, and members of the media and diplomatic corps.

Ambassador Baldocci noted that the summit, titled “Italy and Saudi Arabia in Football: Beyond the Match,” underscores the evolving role of football as one of the most dynamic sectors within the global sports economy. He emphasized that the sport has expanded beyond the pitch to encompass tourism, media, entertainment, and the building of cultural bridges between nations.

He added that the summit builds upon a series of successful bilateral initiatives, including the recent Saudi-Italian Investment and Business Forum held in Riyadh, which coincided with the visit of H.E. Mr. Antonio Tajani, Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The forum witnessed broad participation from the public and private sectors of both countries, with one of its most prominent sessions focusing on sports and cultural industries, reflecting the sector’s growing relevance in bilateral relations.

The Ambassador highlighted the pivotal role of football in fostering cultural closeness and promoting values of inclusion and sustainability. He pointed out that Saudi Arabia, through its repeated hosting of the Italian Super Cup, presents a pioneering model of openness and sports development under Vision 2030. He further stated that these efforts are laying the groundwork for a long-term strategic partnership between the two countries in sports, technology, and investment.

Ambassador Baldocci expressed his gratitude to Saudi institutions for their ongoing dialogue, cooperation, and commitment, describing the year 2025 as an exceptional milestone in bilateral ties. He also voiced optimism about further achievements in 2026, through continued joint efforts and sustainable partnerships that yield mutual benefits.

He concluded by affirming that the summit is not merely a sporting occasion but a strategic platform to shape a shared future, embody common values, and capitalize on the promising opportunities within the sports sector. He commended the organizing bodies—led by the Ministry of Sports, the Serie A League, and the Italian Trade Agency—stating:”As we say in Italy, a winning team should never be changed”.