Newcastle United celebrated their historic Carabao Cup Final win on March 16, 2025, marking the club's first domestic trophy since 1969. However, the victory raises serious questions about the implications of the club's Saudi ownership, especially regarding the human rights issues prevalent in the kingdom, casting a shadow on their achievements.
The excitement surrounding the cup victory has led some fans to suggest that it justifies the Saudi Public Investment Fund's (PIF) ownership of the team. They argue that the win reflects positively on the governance of the club. Yet, significant issues persist regarding human rights abuses connected to the Saudi regime, which many believe should not be overlooked.
One pressing concern is the long prison sentences issued by the Saudi government, particularly towards individuals like Manahel al-Otaibi, a 29-year-old woman sentenced for expressing her views online and dressing in a way deemed inappropriate by authorities. According to a report by Human Rights Watch released in November 2024, such sentences are tied closely to the regime associated with the PIF, prompting skepticism over how much has actually improved since the Carabao Cup win. Sadly, the reality for al-Otaibi and others remains unchanged; she continues to serve her prison term as fans celebrated at Wembley.
Moreover, the treatment of migrant workers under the Kafala system reflects another layer of injustice in Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that over the last five years, at least 274 Kenyan women have died in the country, primarily due to work conditions undocumented and unjust. Many migrant workers from Uganda and Kenya face severe abuse, including unpaid wages and, in extreme cases, fatal outcomes. The New York Times highlighted this inconsistency on the very day of the Carabao Cup Final, making it painfully evident that while the celebration was ongoing in England, many were suffering in silence.
Women's rights, a contentious issue in the kingdom, have seen only marginal advancements. The Personal Status Law, which was introduced on March 8, 2022, was deemed by organizations like Amnesty International as insufficient. It entrenches a male guardianship structure rather than abolishing it, keeping women under the control of male relatives, and limiting their autonomy in critical life decisions, including marriage and child custody.
As Newcastle United fans savored their victory, questions linger about the moral dimensions of their triumph in light of such widespread oppression back home. Has the glorified win prompted the supporters to reassess their relationship with the regime? Can jubilance for football coexist with an ethical awakening regarding human rights issues in Saudi Arabia?
The club’s legacy of solidarity and fairness makes it even more crucial for fans to contemplate the ethical implications tied to its ownership. Historically, Newcastle has been known for its commitment to social justice and humanitarian efforts; hence, it’s vital to foster ongoing awareness about human rights as the club moves forward.
In addition to issues at the core of Saudi politics, Newcastle United remains active in discussions surrounding player contracts. Defender Fabian Schar is currently negotiating his contract extension with the club, as he approaches free agency with his contract ending at the season's close. Schar, who turned 34 in December 2025, has made 220 appearances since his signing from Deportivo La Coruña for just £3 million in 2018.
His contributions to the team cannot be overstated; head coach Eddie Howe has praised his tactical flexibility, highlighting his critical role in Newcastle's game play. Howe asserted, “He's been incredible for me,” and emphasized that Schar is integral to what the team aims to achieve, showcasing the deeper engagement sports have within the community.
Newcastle's triumph may serve as a pivotal moment, calling upon fans and stakeholders alike to consider how the beautiful game interacts with larger socio-political realities. The fanbase has a unique heritage of activism, and thus there's high potential for constructive dialogue between sporting success and accountability regarding human rights abroad.
As fans proudly wear their black and white colors this season, they should also reflect on the stories of those directly impacted by policies in Saudi Arabia. Does celebrating a cup victory overshadow the pressing need for vocal support of human rights? The Newcastle United story must include a narrative that champions equity and justice both on and off the pitch.
