A Canadian judge has approved legal proceedings against Yasir Al-Rumayyan, raising questions about Saudi influence.
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A Canadian judge has validated the service of legal papers in a significant court case that could see Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the chairman of LIV Golf and Newcastle United, facing serious allegations. The case revolves around claims that Al-Rumayyan conspired with Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman (MBS) in a campaign aimed at undermining the family of former intelligence chief Dr.
Saad Aljabri.
Background of the case
Al-Rumayyan, who also serves as the governor of the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), has been at the center of controversy since the fund acquired an 80% stake in Newcastle United in October 2021.
His influence extends beyond football, as he chairs the board of Saudi Aramco, a major player in global oil markets with sponsorship ties to various international sports organizations.
Recent reports indicate that Al-Rumayyan had discussions with former President Donald Trump regarding a potential joint venture involving LIV Golf, raising eyebrows about the intertwining of sports, politics, and international relations.
Details of the allegations
The allegations against Al-Rumayyan are serious, with court documents revealing that he is accused of being directly involved in a campaign against the Aljabri family from June 2017 to January 2021. This campaign allegedly included actions taken with the malicious intent to harm, silence, and ultimately destroy the family of Dr. Aljabri, who fled Saudi Arabia in 2017 and currently resides in Canada.
The proposed counterclaim seeks CA$100 million (approximately US$70.5 million) in damages for abuse of process and unlawful means conspiracy. The Aljabri family contends that Al-Rumayyan and other defendants orchestrated wrongful kidnappings and detentions, as well as the misappropriation of property, all under the direction of MBS.
Implications for the Premier League and beyond
If the court allows the counterclaim to proceed, it could have significant implications for the English Premier League, which previously approved the takeover of Newcastle United by PIF. The league had received assurances that the Saudi state would not exert control over the club, but the allegations raise questions about the degree of separation between PIF and the Saudi government.
The case has already attracted international attention, particularly given the backdrop of ongoing tensions between the Saudi government and the Aljabri family. Aljabri’s previous claims of a “hit squad” sent to assassinate him in Canada further complicate the narrative, highlighting the potential dangers faced by those who oppose the Saudi regime.
Next steps in the legal proceedings
As the legal proceedings unfold, the court will determine whether to grant leave to add new parties to the case and issue the counterclaim. Should this happen, Al-Rumayyan and his co-defendants may be required to mount a defense, potentially leading to a high-profile court battle that could expose the inner workings of Saudi influence in international sports and politics.
The implications of this case extend beyond the courtroom, as it may influence public perception of Saudi investments in sports and the ethical considerations surrounding such financial engagements.
