Why Nasser al-Khelaïfi keeps returning to London | OneFootball

Paris remains Nasser al-Khelaïfi’s preferred base, yet London has become a major hub for his sporting and personal interests. According to L'Équipe, he has just spent two unusual weeks in Doha because of the war in the Middle East.

Constantly on the move, he spends most of his time in Paris, but London has grown into another centre, probably the third most important to him. Arriving on Sunday night, he had little time to enjoy the city.

On Monday he held meetings with UEFA, where he sits on the executive committee. The agenda included the Spain v Argentina Finalissima, once mooted for Doha but now cancelled. He missed the first leg against Chelsea in Paris, which finished 5-2.

He will be at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday at 21:00 to back his side. In London his interests are many, starting with PSG, for whom the UK market is considered important. FIFA and UEFA also frequently stage meetings in the city.

EFC has an office there, as does QSI, PSG’s majority shareholder, whose investments could in the medium term involve England. Strongly involved in padel through Premier Padel, he can use the organiser’s local facilities.

London also lets him take in major events. A keen tennis enthusiast, he rarely misses Wimbledon.

The city has helped him grow personal businesses, including his restaurant, Basta. His high-end ice-cream brand, Fruttini, is stocked in many London hotels. Despite frequent trips, he has never taken a flat, preferring a Mayfair hotel.

Source: L'Équipe