FIFA officially comments, Ronaldo’s statement turns out to be true

FIFA President Gianni Infantino recognized the strong growth of the Saudi Pro League, thereby indirectly reinforcing Cristiano Ronaldo’s earlier disputed view on the league’s standard.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino admitted the significant development of the Saudi Pro League, following Cristiano Ronaldo’s attention-grabbing remark that this league is more competitive than Ligue 1.this league is more competitive than Ligue 1.

The 40-year-old superstar joined Saudi Arabia in December 2022 on a free transfer, ending over two decades of playing in European football. Since then, the Saudi Pro League has continuously attracted many top global stars, and Ronaldo has repeatedly praised the league’s increasing competitiveness.

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat from Arab News (according to Bola VIP), Infantino expressed agreement with this view, stating: “Saudi Arabia has become a major hub on the global football map. This Middle Eastern country is on the right path to becoming one of the top three leagues worldwide.”

Last month, Saudi Arabia was unanimously chosen to host the FIFA World Cup 2034. At that time, Infantino described the country as “a hospitable nation with rich culture, excellent cuisine, and admirable people.”

Earlier, in January 2024, Ronaldo made comments about the Saudi Pro League (according to ESPN): “Honestly, I believe the Saudi league is not inferior to Ligue 1. In France, I think only two or three teams reach a high level. But in Saudi Arabia now, I see greater competitiveness. Critics can say whatever they want; that’s just their opinion. As for me, I have played here for a year, so I know what I’m talking about. And I believe right now, we are better than Ligue 1. We will continue to improve.”

Besides Ronaldo, the Saudi Pro League currently hosts many other big names like Karim Benzema at Al-Ittihad, his teammates at Al-Nassr including Sadio Mané and João Félix, as well as Ruben Neves representing Al-Hilal, highlighting the league’s growing appeal.