In a decisive step to elevate its brand and drive professional growth, NEOM Sports Club has appointed Alex Leitao as its new CEO. Known for his impactful leadership in international football, particularly with Athletico Paranaense in Brazil and Orlando City in Major League Soccer (MLS), Leitao brings a wealth of expertise as NEOM advances its ambitious sports and community engagement strategy under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
NEOM, a futuristic mega-city project situated in northwest Saudi Arabia, is part of the nation’s broader Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying the economy, promoting sustainability, and enhancing quality of life. A central aspect of this vision is the development of Saudi Arabia as a global sports hub. NEOM Sports Club, positioned as a flagship of this sports revolution, sees Leitao’s appointment as key to solidifying its identity in both Saudi and international sports landscapes.
“With Alex’s exceptional experience, we’re confident NEOM Sports Club will grow to embody our vision of global sports leadership and community engagement,” NEOM officials stated. “Alex will lead the club in advancing its position in professional football, developing local talent, and deepening connections with our community.”
A New Vision for NEOM Sports Club
Leitao’s mission at NEOM Sports Club will include enhancing the club’s profile in professional football, especially as the NEOM football team currently leads in the Saudi First Division. Leitao’s arrival comes at a time when the club is pushing for promotion to the Saudi Pro League—a move that would catapult NEOM into the heart of Saudi sports.
Drawing from his global sports experience, Leitao is expected to prioritize brand building and attract international attention to NEOM’s sports programs. His focus will include forging strategic partnerships, enhancing sponsorships, and amplifying media visibility to position NEOM as an influential sports entity in the Middle East and beyond.
Championing Talent and Community Development
Beyond the club’s competitive ambitions, Leitao’s vision aligns with NEOM Sports Club’s dedication to fostering a thriving local sports community. This strategy includes pathways for local youth, advanced training programs, and expanded women’s sports initiatives. Under the guidance of former CEO Moaath Alohali, NEOM Sports Club established successful youth and women’s football programs that encourage widespread sports participation. Alohali, who will now serve as an advisor, will support Leitao in maintaining continuity while advancing these initiatives.
“It’s an honor to lead NEOM Sports Club at such an exciting time in Saudi sports,” Leitao commented. “We have the potential to build a world-class football team that resonates with fans globally and, equally important, to nurture the next generation of Saudi athletes.”
Aligning with Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 identifies sports as an essential component of economic diversification and social development, aiming to increase sports participation and establish the kingdom as a major player in international sports. With NEOM Sports Club, the kingdom aspires to create a model of sustainable sports infrastructure, athlete development, and community engagement.
The appointment of Leitao aligns seamlessly with Vision 2030, bringing a forward-thinking approach that emphasizes both professional success and grassroots development. As Saudi Arabia hosts more international sports events and invests in world-class facilities, NEOM Sports Club is poised to become a key contributor to the nation’s sporting landscape.
Through his leadership, Leitao will help realize NEOM’s mission of fostering an inclusive and active community, ultimately establishing NEOM as a destination for global sports talent and fans.
