Baseball United Hits a Home Run With Expansion to Saudi Arabia

Baseball United, a professional baseball league based in the Middle East and South Asia, has signed an unlimited-term agreement with the Saudi Baseball and Softball Federation (SBSF) to host its professional league and tournaments in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This marks a historic first for Saudi Arabia, introducing professional baseball to the kingdom.

The agreement grants Baseball United the rights to establish new franchises in three of Saudi Arabia's largest cities: Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. These teams will join the league's existing roster, further solidifying its presence in the Middle East.

The collaboration extends beyond simply hosting games, with the opening of a Baseball United subsidiary in Saudi Arabia. This subsidiary, along with the SBSF, will work to develop baseball at the grassroots level, fostering a national love for the sport. Formed in 2019, the SBSF shares Baseball United's vision of expanding the sport's reach. The partnership also aims to establish a strong Saudi Arabian national team for participation in World Baseball Softball Confederation tournaments.

This move builds on Baseball United's success in 2023, when it launched its first season with the All-Star Showcase held in Dubai in November. This was the first series of professional baseball games ever played in the region. Baseball United is expected to formally announce its 2024 plans, including details on the Saudi Arabian franchises, later this year.