Oil You Need is Cash

“Oil money” continues to be one of the most defining forces in modern football. If you’re an avid follower of the sport, you have undoubtedly witnessed the transformative effect of investments originating from oil-rich regions like the Middle East and Russia. When companies or sovereign investment funds backed by oil wealth invest in football clubs, the results are monumental — both on and off the pitch.

In recent years, football has grown from a sport into a globalised business platform, heavily influenced by international capital. The relationship is mutually beneficial: clubs receive financial backing to buy players, develop infrastructure, and build global brands, while investors gain exposure, prestige, and a foothold in new markets.

From Underdogs to Giants: The PSG Case

Perhaps the most well-known example of oil-fuelled transformation is Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Once considered a mid-tier French club, PSG’s acquisition by Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) in 2011 dramatically changed its trajectory. The influx of Qatari capital allowed PSG to sign global superstars, including Neymar, Mbappé, and Messi (now departed), and revamp its facilities and brand.

In 2025, PSG is now valued at over $4.2 billion, according to Forbes, making it one of the most valuable clubs in the world. In 2023/24, the club reported revenues of €780 million, despite growing financial fair play scrutiny. Its partnerships with brands like Nike, Dior, and GOAT have positioned it as a global lifestyle entity, not just a football club.

The investment also paid off on the pitch. PSG has dominated Ligue 1, reached the Champions League final in 2020, and consistently made deep runs in Europe. All of this started after QSI took control, demonstrating the power of sustained financial support.

The Power of Sponsorship: Emirates & Beyond

Qatar’s use of oil money isn’t limited to club ownership. Companies like Emirates Airlines have forged high-profile sponsorships with Arsenal, Real Madrid, Benfica, and formerly PSG. These deals are not just marketing gimmicks; they generate massive visibility. For instance, during the 2018 Champions League Final between Real Madrid and Liverpool, jerseys featuring the Emirates logo were viewed by over 400 million people globally.

The Emirates Group posted a profit of $4.7 billion in 2024, partially fuelled by branding strategies like sports sponsorships. These allow the company to connect emotionally with fans and customers across continents.

The Saudi Surge: A New Chapter in Oil Money

While Qatar and Russia laid the groundwork, Saudi Arabia is now at the forefront of oil-backed football influence. Through its Public Investment Fund (PIF), Saudi Arabia has launched an aggressive campaign to become a football powerhouse. It began with the purchase of Newcastle United in 2021, followed by heavy investments in the Saudi Pro League.

By 2024, Saudi clubs like Al Nassr, Al Hilal, and Al Ittihad were signing top-tier European talent — Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Benzema, and others — with massive contracts. The PIF has earmarked billions to not only elevate its domestic league but also to bid for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

This strategic use of oil revenue isn’t just about sport. It’s part of a broader plan — Saudi Vision 2030 — to diversify the kingdom’s economy, boost tourism, and project soft power globally.

Russia’s Oil-Fuelled Strategy: Gazprom’s Grip

Russia’s influence in football has been driven by state-backed energy giant Gazprom, which once sponsored major clubs like Schalke 04 and Red Star Belgrade, and had a long-running partnership with the UEFA Champions League. However, following the Russia-Ukraine conflict, many of Gazprom’s football partnerships were terminated due to political and ethical backlash.

Still, Gazprom remains an important case study in how oil and gas corporations use football as a PR tool to gain global influence and humanise their brands.

Conclusion

In 2025, the role of oil money in football is more significant — and more scrutinised — than ever before. From club ownership and mega sponsorships to sports-washing accusations and geopolitical manoeuvring, oil-rich nations are reshaping the footballing landscape.

Whether it's PSG's glamour, Newcastle’s resurgence, or the Saudi Pro League’s meteoric rise, the financial firepower of oil-backed entities has permanently altered the beautiful game. The global nature of modern football means that money no longer just buys players — it buys influence, legitimacy, and, in many cases, a seat at the world’s most powerful tables.