Equal Play: DAZN Breaks Gender Barriers by Including Saudi Women’s League in Their Lineup

DAZN to Broadcast Saudi Women’s Premier League Globally

Expanding Commitment to Women’s Football

Hannah Brown, DAZN‘s Co-CEO of Women’s Sport:

“DAZN has an unparalleled commitment to the growth and development of women’s football. The addition of the Saudi Women’s Premier League allows us to further elevate the game, and support women and girls who play and watch football. We have been following closely the progress of the women’s game in Saudi Arabia since they launched their first national league in 2020, and we are thrilled to support the league in the next phase of its development.”

DAZN, the global sports streaming platform, has announced that it has acquired the global broadcasting rights for the Saudi Women’s Premier League. This move demonstrates DAZN‘s dedication to promoting women’s football and providing access to the sport for fans around the world.

DAZN already has a strong presence in the women’s football space, broadcasting the UEFA Women’s Champions League, top European women’s football leagues, and the NWSL. With the addition of the Saudi Women’s Premier League, DAZN‘s women’s football portfolio becomes the most comprehensive in the world.

Aalia Abdulaziz AlRasheed, Head of the Women’s Football Department of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation:

“We’re delighted to have finalized the Saudi Women’s Premier League’s first international broadcast deal with DAZN, which promises to promote the women’s game here in Saudi across global territories, thereby attracting new audiences and inspiring generations present and future. Today’s announcement shows that we are making real progress and heading in the right direction.”

Controversy and Progress in Saudi Arabian Football

Saudi Arabian football has recently gained attention due to its men’s clubs’ high-profile signings of international stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Sadio Mane from Europe. Additionally, the relaunch of women’s competitions in 2022, including the creation of the Premier League and First Division, has generated excitement and controversy.

While the inclusion of women’s football in Saudi Arabia is a positive step towards increasing gender equality in sports, the country still faces significant challenges. Saudi Arabia has long been known for its restrictive rights for women, and the inclusion of openly gay players in women’s football raises further concerns.

It is important to acknowledge that homosexuality is illegal and potentially punishable by death in Saudi Arabia. The recent progress in women’s football should not overshadow the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity in the country.

Advice for DAZN and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation

As DAZN expands its presence in women’s football, the platform must continue to emphasize inclusivity and support for marginalized communities. While broadcasting the sport globally is an essential step, it is equally crucial for DAZN to use its influence to advocate for meaningful change within Saudi Arabia.

For the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, partnering with influential broadcast partners like DAZN provides an opportunity to showcase the talent and dedication of women’s football players in the country. However, it is crucial for the federation to address the existing barriers and work towards greater freedoms and rights for women in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion

The announcement of DAZN acquiring global broadcasting rights for the Saudi Women’s Premier League is a positive development for women’s football and showcases the growing interest and investment in the sport. However, it is essential to remember that progress should be measured not only by sports achievements but also by the advancement of gender equality and inclusivity in Saudi Arabia.

As the world continues to celebrate and support women’s football, it is crucial to advocate for the rights and well-being of all individuals involved in the sport, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation. The power of sports lies not only in entertainment but also in its ability to bring about positive social change.