Premier League club Newcastle bought by Saudi sovereign fund

21 Sept 12:16 Key points summarised by AI

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) completed a £300 million acquisition of Premier League club Newcastle United, ending Mike Ashley's 14-year ownership.
The takeover, previously stalled over concerns about Saudi state control, human rights, and piracy, was approved after PIF provided "legally binding assurances" of separation between the fund and the Saudi state.
Fans celebrated the long-desired investment, hoping for a return to glory, while human rights activists expressed "worrying" concerns about the deal being used for "sportswashing" Saudi Arabia's image.
The new ownership, holding 80% of the club, aims to transform Newcastle, similar to Manchester City's success post-Abu Dhabi acquisition, with immediate attention on the team's poor performance and potential managerial changes.

Gold first, proposal next: Thai archer delivers on promise

Yesterday 16:22 Key points summarised by AI

Thai para archer Khomson Singphirom won gold at the 2026 Asian Para Games, fulfilling his promise to propose to fellow archer and partner Phannipa Srathongmaew.
Khomson's partner, Phannipa, also secured a bronze medal, making their achievements at the Games particularly memorable.