SPL launches second phase of PACE programme until 2030 | OneFootball

The Saudi Pro League has launched the second phase of its Player Acquisition Centre of Excellence, PACE, and introduced a new allocation mechanism running until 2030. According to spl.com.sa, the shift targets a clearer, more sustainable model that boosts club competitiveness and long term sporting and commercial growth.

The move builds on the SPL Transformation Strategy introduced in early 2023, which aims to raise competition quality, grow the league’s international profile, and support clubs in developing their sporting and commercial capabilities.

In phase one, PACE centralised elements of transfers and supported squad mapping and player care, contributing to strong indicators. Club market value rose by 221%, combined club and commercial revenues by 353%, central commercial revenues by 115%, and the league’s power ranking score increased by 5.63 points, a metric comparing competitiveness worldwide.

This competitive trend was mirrored in continental and regional results, with Al Shabab reaching last month’s Gulf Club Champions Cup final and Al Ahli winning a second successive AFC Champions League Elite title. Al Nassr also secured a place in the AFC Champions League Two final, to be played in Riyadh later this month.

The new mechanism is based on four criteria, an equal share across all clubs worth 22% of the total budget, sporting performance 22%, television viewership 28%, and commercial performance 28%. It links allocations more clearly to each club’s sporting and commercial value and performance.

Phase two is framed as a natural evolution after three years of implementation, shifting from a market establishment focus to one built on governance, clearer criteria and long term sustainability. It gives clubs greater responsibility for planning and maximising the impact of their investments, and aims to empower long term planning, strengthen competitiveness and lift overall league value for fans and the sporting product.

Source: spl.com.sa