Former A-League boss Danny Townsend has been unveiled as the new chief executive of SRL Sports Investments, a Saudi Arabia-based company funded by the Middle East nation’s multibillion-dollar Public Investment Fund.
Townsend’s mooted departure from his role as Australian Professional League chief executive was confirmed last week.
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In his new role with a company that calls itself the “emerging leader of sports investments in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region”, Townsend will lead SRJ’s “strategic direction” and play an “important role in driving the organisation’s growth in the local and global sports investment sector”.
The PIF has continued to spread its sporting influence as the major-backer of LIV Golf among other investments and is attempting to do a merger deal with the US PGA Tour.
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“I welcome the opportunity to build on the strong foundations of SRJ as we pursue exciting avenues to drive fan engagement, encourage greater sports participation and unlock game-changing opportunities in the region and beyond,” said Townsend, who was Sydney FC’s chief executive before taking the APL’s top job.
“Saudi Arabia’s sports sector is growing at pace. I’m looking forward to being part of an ambitious team focused on creating new experiences that can be enjoyed at home and away, delivering value to all stakeholders.”
SRL chairman Bander Bin Mogren said: “We are delighted to welcome Danny as the CEO at SRJ Sports Investments.
“His impressive achievements in the global sports industry position him as a strong leader.
“Danny will help drive SRJ’s ambitions to deliver long-term impact through strategic, sustainable investments.
“The board of directors are confident in Danny’s leadership and strategic vision for the organisation, and we look forward to achieving great success together.”