Soft Power

There's been two football tournaments in the United States this summer, the Club World Cup and the Gold Cup. Both with an ostensible Saudi feel, all part of grand plan to invest heavily in sport backed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Adam Leventhal has travelled to Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas to witness this soft power at play. Hear from Saudi players and fans who celebrate the exposure afforded by these tournaments, but also, crucially, those who fear its impact. All with an eye on the future when Saudi Arabia will be hosting the 2034 Men's World Cup. Host: Adam Leventhal Producer: Jesse Howard Exec Producer: Abi Paterson Featuring footage from: DAZN, Fox News, CBS News, France 24 News, FIFA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Today Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by author James Montague to discuss his new book 'Engulfed' - exploring Saudi Arabia's massive investments in sport. James gives unique insights on the history of Saudi football, the Vision 2030 project, and how Newcastle United's takeover fits into the larger picture. You'll find out how strategic use of 'soft power' has transformed Saudi Arabia's global image through sport. The trio examine the rich football culture in Saudi Arabia, the country's evolving social landscape, and the geopolitics influencing these changes. If you’re enjoying the podcast, please subscribe and consider leaving a five-star review to help others find the show. 00:00 Introduction 00:17 James Montague's Early Works and Reviews 01:28 Re-release and Sequel: Engulfed 01:59 Saudi Arabia's Emergence in Sports 03:26 Sports Washing and Soft Power 06:47 Historical Context and Saudi Investments 11:10 Mohammad bin Salman's Rise to Power 23:57 The Khashoggi Incident and Its Aftermath 30:13 Saudi Arabia's Football Culture 31:24 Challenges of Covering Saudi Arabia 33:52 Women in Saudi Football 35:15 Jimmy Hill's Influence on Saudi Football 40:33 David Icke's Saudi Adventure 46:10 Vision 2030 and Saudi Football Investments 52:26 Neom's Football Ambitions 57:34 Conclusion and Book Promotion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.