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WELCOME TO MESIF MADRID 2025!
We are delighted to host you for the 5th edition of the Middle East Sports Investment Forum, here at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium — a true symbol of sporting excellence and ambition.
This exclusive VIP gathering, organised in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Sport and the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia, as well as Sela, brings together leading international sports stakeholders and investors to strengthen connections with the Middle East and fuel the region’s sporting growth.
As Madrid prepares to welcome the Formula 1 Grand Prix and co-host the FIFA World Cup 2030, the city provides the perfect stage to explore the rise of sports tourism, mega-event hosting, and the infrastructure driving regional ambitions.
We have an exciting programme ahead, filled with VIP speakers, networking opportunities, and immersive experiences. We wish you an inspiring two days of dialogue, collaboration, and new ideas here at MESIF Madrid 2025.
200 DELEGATES
VIP EXPERIENCE
45+ SPEAKERS
CONFIRMED SPEAKERS
Isabel Díaz Ayuso
President, Comunidad de Madrid
Isabel Díaz Ayuso is the President of Madrid Region, a position she has held since August 2019. With a distinguished career in public service and communications, she has been a leading figure in shaping Madrid’s economic and cultural prominence on both national and international stages.
She holds a degree in Journalism and a Diploma in Advanced Studies from the Complutense University of Madrid, along with a Master’s in Political Communication and Protocol. Before entering politics, she worked in communications and media, contributing to several organisations, foundations, and broadcasting platforms in Spain and abroad.
Elected as a member of the Regional Parliament in 2011, President Díaz Ayuso has been re-elected in every subsequent election and has served in key leadership roles, including Deputy Regional Minister of the Presidency and Justice. Her tenure has been marked by a commitment to strengthening Madrid’s global reputation as a hub for business, culture, and innovation.
Isabel Díaz Ayuso is the President of Madrid Region, a position she has held since August 2019. With a distinguished career in public service and communications, she has been a leading figure in shaping Madrid’s economic and cultural prominence on both national and international stages.
She holds a degree in Journalism and a Diploma in Advanced Studies from the Complutense University of Madrid, along with a Master’s in Political Communication and Protocol. Before entering politics, she worked in communications and media, contributing to several organisations, foundations, and broadcasting platforms in Spain and abroad.
Elected as a member of the Regional Parliament in 2011, President Díaz Ayuso has been re-elected in every subsequent election and has served in key leadership roles, including Deputy Regional Minister of the Presidency and Justice. Her tenure has been marked by a commitment to strengthening Madrid’s global reputation as a hub for business, culture, and innovation.
Ibrahim S. Almoaiqel
Assistant Deputy Minister for Investment & Privatization, Ministry of Sport, KSA
H.H. Prince Turki bin Khalid bin Faisal
Businessman, Father of four
Former Member Saudi Football Federation SAFF
Former Superintendent Saudi National Football Team
A businessman in the sports field, Prince Turki bin Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud has held numerous sports positions in Saudi Arabia. Among his most prominent roles are:
Honorary Member of Al-Nassr FC
Supervisor of the Saudi National Team
President of the Arab Football Federation
Former Member Saudi Football Federation SAFF
Former Superintendent Saudi National Football Team
A businessman in the sports field, Prince Turki bin Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud has held numerous sports positions in Saudi Arabia. Among his most prominent roles are:
Honorary Member of Al-Nassr FC
Supervisor of the Saudi National Team
President of the Arab Football Federation
Inmaculada Sanz Otero
Vice Mayor, Madrid City Council
Born in Zamora, in 1977. Married with two children. Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and Management from the Autonomous University of Madrid.
She is the Vice Mayor and First Deputy Mayor of Madrid, a responsibility she has added to her roles as the spokesperson for the municipal government and the delegate for Security and Emergencies, which she already held during the 2019-2023 term. She is also the secretary of the Board of Governors.
Before being elected as a councillor in 2015, she held various positions of responsibility within the Community of Madrid, such as Director General of Dependency Coordination and Director General of Relations with the Assembly of Madrid.
She is a member of the Executive Committee of the People’s Party of Madrid, where she has served as the Deputy Secretary for Sectoral Affairs since the 17th Congress (May 2022).
Between 2011 and 2023, she was the president of the PP in Hortaleza, the district where she resides. She has also served as the president of the Tetuán district, where she began her involvement as a member on reaching adulthood.
Furthermore, she has held various responsibilities within the People's Party of Madrid, including those of Secretary of the Presidency Area, Secretary of Training, and Secretary of National Organisation of New Generations.
Commissioned by Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida, she has directed the party’s last two electoral campaigns in the city of Madrid, which have returned the municipal government to the PP.
A sports enthusiast, fond of travelling and nature, she returns whenever she can to Lake Sanabria (Zamora), where she lived until moving to Madrid at the age of 12.
Born in Zamora, in 1977. Married with two children. Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and Management from the Autonomous University of Madrid.
She is the Vice Mayor and First Deputy Mayor of Madrid, a responsibility she has added to her roles as the spokesperson for the municipal government and the delegate for Security and Emergencies, which she already held during the 2019-2023 term. She is also the secretary of the Board of Governors.
Before being elected as a councillor in 2015, she held various positions of responsibility within the Community of Madrid, such as Director General of Dependency Coordination and Director General of Relations with the Assembly of Madrid.
She is a member of the Executive Committee of the People’s Party of Madrid, where she has served as the Deputy Secretary for Sectoral Affairs since the 17th Congress (May 2022).
Between 2011 and 2023, she was the president of the PP in Hortaleza, the district where she resides. She has also served as the president of the Tetuán district, where she began her involvement as a member on reaching adulthood.
Furthermore, she has held various responsibilities within the People's Party of Madrid, including those of Secretary of the Presidency Area, Secretary of Training, and Secretary of National Organisation of New Generations.
Commissioned by Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida, she has directed the party’s last two electoral campaigns in the city of Madrid, which have returned the municipal government to the PP.
A sports enthusiast, fond of travelling and nature, she returns whenever she can to Lake Sanabria (Zamora), where she lived until moving to Madrid at the age of 12.
Emilio Butragueño
Institutional Relations Director, Real Madrid C.F.
Emilio Butragueño, is a former Spanish football player, who is a legendary figure for Real Madrid. He was a prolific forward who won six La Liga titles and two UEFA Cups with the club. He also represented the Spanish national team, scoring 26 goals in 69 appearances. He has held various executive roles at Real Madrid and currently serves as the club's Institutional Relations Director.
Emilio Butragueño, is a former Spanish football player, who is a legendary figure for Real Madrid. He was a prolific forward who won six La Liga titles and two UEFA Cups with the club. He also represented the Spanish national team, scoring 26 goals in 69 appearances. He has held various executive roles at Real Madrid and currently serves as the club's Institutional Relations Director.
H.E. Hanan Al Mahmoud
Vice Chairperson, Sharjah Women's Sport Foundation
Hanan Al Mahmoud is Vice Chairperson of Sharjah Women’s Sports (SWS) and a member of the UAE National Olympic Committee.
She leads an umbrella organization comprising four women’s sports clubs, collectively serving over 1,000 female athletes.
Under her leadership, SWS also operates a comprehensive network of specialized centers offering holistic services for athletes, from training and sports science to mental wellness and medical services.
She is Vice Chairperson of the Higher Committee and Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Arab Women Sports Tournament in its 2024 and 2026 Editions, one of the region’s premier multi-sport events.
Previously, as CEO of Al Jawaher Reception & Convention Centre (2012–2023), she positioned the venue as Sharjah’s top event destination, hosting over 3,000 events and one million visitors.
Her earlier career included serving as Head of Business Management at Sharjah Ladies Club, overseeing 200 staff and 3,500 services and products.
Hanan also holds key governance roles, including on the Board of Trustees of Rubu’ Qarn Establishment and the Consultative Board of Sharjah Hospitality Group.
She has a B.S. in Management Information Systems & Marketing (Honors) from the University of Sharjah, plus multiple leadership and protocol certifications.
Her career blends business acumen, sports governance expertise, and a commitment to empowering women through sport.
Beyond her professional roles, Hanan is a dedicated mentor, mother of three, and advocate for self-development and community impact.
Hanan Al Mahmoud is Vice Chairperson of Sharjah Women’s Sports (SWS) and a member of the UAE National Olympic Committee.
She leads an umbrella organization comprising four women’s sports clubs, collectively serving over 1,000 female athletes.
Under her leadership, SWS also operates a comprehensive network of specialized centers offering holistic services for athletes, from training and sports science to mental wellness and medical services.
She is Vice Chairperson of the Higher Committee and Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Arab Women Sports Tournament in its 2024 and 2026 Editions, one of the region’s premier multi-sport events.
Previously, as CEO of Al Jawaher Reception & Convention Centre (2012–2023), she positioned the venue as Sharjah’s top event destination, hosting over 3,000 events and one million visitors.
Her earlier career included serving as Head of Business Management at Sharjah Ladies Club, overseeing 200 staff and 3,500 services and products.
Hanan also holds key governance roles, including on the Board of Trustees of Rubu’ Qarn Establishment and the Consultative Board of Sharjah Hospitality Group.
She has a B.S. in Management Information Systems & Marketing (Honors) from the University of Sharjah, plus multiple leadership and protocol certifications.
Her career blends business acumen, sports governance expertise, and a commitment to empowering women through sport.
Beyond her professional roles, Hanan is a dedicated mentor, mother of three, and advocate for self-development and community impact.
Mansour Almokbel
CEO, Saudi Motorsport Company
Mansour Al Mokbel is the the new CEO at the Saudi Motorsports Company.
Mansour continues to also serve as the General Manager for Investments in the Ministry of Sport. He is responsible for catalysing investment-led growth in the sport sector through private sector participation. He leads a team that not only creates investment opportunities, but also enables a conducive environment for the private sector to profitably engage and flourish. Simultaneously, he leads monetization of infrastructure and assets of the Ministry and the commercialization of Ministry’s events and activities.
Prior to joining the Ministry of Sport, he served as the General Director for Delivery in the Ministry of Defence, leading a successful transformation program.
Mansour holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering from King Fahad University of Petroleum and Minerals and his Executive MBA from the George Washington University. He also has a Certificate in Management (CiM) from London Business School and Managing Successful Programmes MSP® Practitioner Certificate.
Mansour Al Mokbel is the the new CEO at the Saudi Motorsports Company.
Mansour continues to also serve as the General Manager for Investments in the Ministry of Sport. He is responsible for catalysing investment-led growth in the sport sector through private sector participation. He leads a team that not only creates investment opportunities, but also enables a conducive environment for the private sector to profitably engage and flourish. Simultaneously, he leads monetization of infrastructure and assets of the Ministry and the commercialization of Ministry’s events and activities.
Prior to joining the Ministry of Sport, he served as the General Director for Delivery in the Ministry of Defence, leading a successful transformation program.
Mansour holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering from King Fahad University of Petroleum and Minerals and his Executive MBA from the George Washington University. He also has a Certificate in Management (CiM) from London Business School and Managing Successful Programmes MSP® Practitioner Certificate.
Ahmed Mohtaseb
Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer, SELA
A seasoned executive with a proven track record of driving growth and innovation, Ahmed serves as the Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer at Sela. Since the inception of Sela, he has played a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory and securing strategic partnerships with renowned global brands. Leveraging his deep expertise in international business, Ahmed has successfully positioned Sela as a global market leader.
His unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional value to clients, coupled with his innovative approach to business development, has propelled Sela to the forefront of its industry.
As a strategic visionary, Ahmed is adept at identifying emerging trends and capitalizing on local and international growth opportunities. His ability to navigate complex business environments and execute on ambitious initiatives has been instrumental in Sela's success.
Through his leadership, Sela has consistently exceeded expectations and established itself as a trusted partner to clients worldwide.
A seasoned executive with a proven track record of driving growth and innovation, Ahmed serves as the Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer at Sela. Since the inception of Sela, he has played a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory and securing strategic partnerships with renowned global brands. Leveraging his deep expertise in international business, Ahmed has successfully positioned Sela as a global market leader.
His unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional value to clients, coupled with his innovative approach to business development, has propelled Sela to the forefront of its industry.
As a strategic visionary, Ahmed is adept at identifying emerging trends and capitalizing on local and international growth opportunities. His ability to navigate complex business environments and execute on ambitious initiatives has been instrumental in Sela's success.
Through his leadership, Sela has consistently exceeded expectations and established itself as a trusted partner to clients worldwide.
Jens Lehmann
Football Legend, Board Advisor, Entrepreneur
Jens Lehmann is a former German goalkeeper renowned for his success across Europe. He played for Schalke 04, AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, Arsenal, and VfB Stuttgart. Lehmann won the UEFA Cup with Schalke (1997), the Bundesliga with Dortmund (2002), and the Premier League with Arsenal’s “Invincibles” (2004). He was the first Bundesliga goalkeeper to score from open play and earned multiple Goalkeeper of the Year awards. Internationally, he helped Germany secure World Cup bronze (2006) and Euro silver (2008). After retirement, he became a coach, TV expert, and investor in real estate, energy, and sports tech ventures.
Jens Lehmann is a former German goalkeeper renowned for his success across Europe. He played for Schalke 04, AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, Arsenal, and VfB Stuttgart. Lehmann won the UEFA Cup with Schalke (1997), the Bundesliga with Dortmund (2002), and the Premier League with Arsenal’s “Invincibles” (2004). He was the first Bundesliga goalkeeper to score from open play and earned multiple Goalkeeper of the Year awards. Internationally, he helped Germany secure World Cup bronze (2006) and Euro silver (2008). After retirement, he became a coach, TV expert, and investor in real estate, energy, and sports tech ventures.
Vicente Azpitarte
Senator of the Kingdom of Spain
Vicente Azpitarte Pérez (Granada, 1983). Journalist and Senator of the XIII and XV Legislature. Between 2019 and 2023 he served as Government Delegate of the Junta de Andalucía in Madrid.
As a journalist he was Press Officer of the National Basketball Team; he worked for a decade for the Grupo Libertad Digital-esRadio as Head of Sports and collaborated assiduously for media such as Ondacero or El Mundo.
He was spokesman for Sports in the Senate and a member of the CFSP (Common Foreign Security Policy).
He has been a professor in different master's degrees and has been appointed honorary master's professor by the School of Communication of Granada (ESCO) where he also graduated in journalism.
He is the author of the biography translated into numerous languages of the Real Madrid player, Luka Modric.
Vicente Azpitarte Pérez (Granada, 1983). Journalist and Senator of the XIII and XV Legislature. Between 2019 and 2023 he served as Government Delegate of the Junta de Andalucía in Madrid.
As a journalist he was Press Officer of the National Basketball Team; he worked for a decade for the Grupo Libertad Digital-esRadio as Head of Sports and collaborated assiduously for media such as Ondacero or El Mundo.
He was spokesman for Sports in the Senate and a member of the CFSP (Common Foreign Security Policy).
He has been a professor in different master's degrees and has been appointed honorary master's professor by the School of Communication of Granada (ESCO) where he also graduated in journalism.
He is the author of the biography translated into numerous languages of the Real Madrid player, Luka Modric.
Lojain Alharbi
Board Member, Saudi Arabian Rugby Federation
Lojain Alharbi is a Board Member of the Saudi Arabian Rugby Federation and served in the Sport Sector at NEOM, where she led strategic initiatives including athlete engagement, sport partnerships, sustainability programs, and the development of sport governance and operational frameworks. She has contributed to the introduction and growth of women’s rugby in Saudi Arabia, creating opportunities for Saudi athletes to compete internationally. Lojain brings experience in sport governance, strategic development, and cross-sector collaboration, with a strong commitment to advancing inclusive and sustainable sports ecosystems aligned with Saudi Arabia’s global ambitions
Lojain Alharbi is a Board Member of the Saudi Arabian Rugby Federation and served in the Sport Sector at NEOM, where she led strategic initiatives including athlete engagement, sport partnerships, sustainability programs, and the development of sport governance and operational frameworks. She has contributed to the introduction and growth of women’s rugby in Saudi Arabia, creating opportunities for Saudi athletes to compete internationally. Lojain brings experience in sport governance, strategic development, and cross-sector collaboration, with a strong commitment to advancing inclusive and sustainable sports ecosystems aligned with Saudi Arabia’s global ambitions
Iñigo Fernández de Mesa
Vice President, CEOE
Iñigo Fernandez de Mesa is currently Chairman of the Board of Rothschild & Co in Spain, Vice President of CEOE, President of the Economic and Tax Commissions at the CEOE, President of the IEE (Economic Studies Institute), member of the Altamar International Advisory Board, member of the Scottish Power Limited Board of Directors and President of the Audit Committee at the same company.
He studied Economics at the Universidad Complutense of Madrid and belongs to the High Corps of Spanish State Economists and Trade Experts
Iñigo retired from public office at the end of 2016, having served for five years in senior positions in the Spanish Government, most recently as Secretary of State of Economy and before that as Secretary of the Treasury from 2012 to 2014. During this period, Iñigo also served as Vice President of FROB (the fund for the orderly restructuring of the financial sector), Board Member of the CNMV (Stock Market Regulator) and the Bank of Spain, and as the representative of Spain in the Euro Working Group and the Financial Stability Board.
His stewardship of the Spanish Treasury, securing access by the Kingdom of Spain to the public capital markets during the peak of the European Sovereign Crisis in 2012, as well as his leadership role in the negotiations of the financial restructuring of the Spanish Banking sector with the European Union were some of the achievements of the ministry.
Prior to joining the public sector, Iñigo held positions at the World Bank, Lehman Brothers and Barclays Capital, where he worked as Managing Director in charge of the Public Sector.
Iñigo Fernandez de Mesa is currently Chairman of the Board of Rothschild & Co in Spain, Vice President of CEOE, President of the Economic and Tax Commissions at the CEOE, President of the IEE (Economic Studies Institute), member of the Altamar International Advisory Board, member of the Scottish Power Limited Board of Directors and President of the Audit Committee at the same company.
He studied Economics at the Universidad Complutense of Madrid and belongs to the High Corps of Spanish State Economists and Trade Experts
Iñigo retired from public office at the end of 2016, having served for five years in senior positions in the Spanish Government, most recently as Secretary of State of Economy and before that as Secretary of the Treasury from 2012 to 2014. During this period, Iñigo also served as Vice President of FROB (the fund for the orderly restructuring of the financial sector), Board Member of the CNMV (Stock Market Regulator) and the Bank of Spain, and as the representative of Spain in the Euro Working Group and the Financial Stability Board.
His stewardship of the Spanish Treasury, securing access by the Kingdom of Spain to the public capital markets during the peak of the European Sovereign Crisis in 2012, as well as his leadership role in the negotiations of the financial restructuring of the Spanish Banking sector with the European Union were some of the achievements of the ministry.
Prior to joining the public sector, Iñigo held positions at the World Bank, Lehman Brothers and Barclays Capital, where he worked as Managing Director in charge of the Public Sector.
Daniel Martínez Rodríguez
Executive Director, IFEMA Madrid
A graduate in Law from the UCM and Executive MBA from the Escuela de Organización Industrial, Daniel Martínez has been Deputy Minister of Culture, Tourism and Sport in the Community of Madrid, from where he has promoted the main projects of cultural and tourist economic growth in the Region, and Managing Director of Madrid Cultura y Turismo S.A.U. Previously, he was a director of Grupo Editorial Siglo XXI, in whose international expansion he participated as Managing Director of Biblioteca Nueva S.L. He also taught on the Masters in Publishing taught by the Complutense University of Madrid.
A graduate in Law from the UCM and Executive MBA from the Escuela de Organización Industrial, Daniel Martínez has been Deputy Minister of Culture, Tourism and Sport in the Community of Madrid, from where he has promoted the main projects of cultural and tourist economic growth in the Region, and Managing Director of Madrid Cultura y Turismo S.A.U. Previously, he was a director of Grupo Editorial Siglo XXI, in whose international expansion he participated as Managing Director of Biblioteca Nueva S.L. He also taught on the Masters in Publishing taught by the Complutense University of Madrid.
Aphrodite Moschoudi
Director of Planning & Quality, Qatar Tourism
Aphrodite Moschoudi is an accomplished professional with expertise in major sports projects and events. Her career highlights include extensive involvement in bidding, strategic planning and delivery of major events, including the Olympic Games, Asian Games, Arab Games, FIFA World Cup, FIFA Arab Cup, Asian Cup, World Championships in Athletics and IPC Para-Athletics. She has also been instrumental in setting up key sport projects such as the Schools Olympic Programme, the Olympic & Sport Museum, the National Sport Day as well as sport investments and partnerships.
During her time at the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), Aphrodite led the Planning & Integration of Host Country Operations for the FIFA World Cup, Qatar 2022, to include the tournament readiness and ultimately the delivery of the Main Operations Centre as the central point of command.
Aphrodite’s approach is that talent and technical expertise are not sufficient and should be complemented by positive spirit, practical thinking, human relations and ethos all the way.
Aphrodite is now working at Qatar Tourism as a Director of Planning and Quality.
Aphrodite Moschoudi is an accomplished professional with expertise in major sports projects and events. Her career highlights include extensive involvement in bidding, strategic planning and delivery of major events, including the Olympic Games, Asian Games, Arab Games, FIFA World Cup, FIFA Arab Cup, Asian Cup, World Championships in Athletics and IPC Para-Athletics. She has also been instrumental in setting up key sport projects such as the Schools Olympic Programme, the Olympic & Sport Museum, the National Sport Day as well as sport investments and partnerships.
During her time at the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), Aphrodite led the Planning & Integration of Host Country Operations for the FIFA World Cup, Qatar 2022, to include the tournament readiness and ultimately the delivery of the Main Operations Centre as the central point of command.
Aphrodite’s approach is that talent and technical expertise are not sufficient and should be complemented by positive spirit, practical thinking, human relations and ethos all the way.
Aphrodite is now working at Qatar Tourism as a Director of Planning and Quality.
Bader Aljeraisy
Acting GM of Investment, Head of Privatization, Ministry of Sport, KSA
Ibrahim AlKhorayef
Acting GM Events Planning & Development, Ministry of Sport, KSA
Ibrahim Alkhorayef serves as the General Manager of Planning & Development within the Sport Events Deputyship in the Ministry of Sport. Ibrahim is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of new IPs & hosting events (Assessments, negotiations, and deal management). He has also held roles in international relationships, strategic planning, operational modeling, and performance benchmarking, with a strong emphasis on sports development. His experience includes working on the sports strategies (National Sport Strategy and Sectorial Sport Events Strategy), delivering regional initiatives, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and contributing to leadership development programs.
Ibrahim Alkhorayef serves as the General Manager of Planning & Development within the Sport Events Deputyship in the Ministry of Sport. Ibrahim is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of new IPs & hosting events (Assessments, negotiations, and deal management). He has also held roles in international relationships, strategic planning, operational modeling, and performance benchmarking, with a strong emphasis on sports development. His experience includes working on the sports strategies (National Sport Strategy and Sectorial Sport Events Strategy), delivering regional initiatives, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and contributing to leadership development programs.
Anas Dahlawi
General Manager - Facilities Operation, Ministry of Sport, KSA
Fahad Alsubaie
Director - Clubs Investment, Ministry of Sport, KSA
Fahad AlSubaie plays a pivotal role in the transformation of Saudi Arabia's sports sector into a dynamic and investment-ready landscape. As the Director of Club Investments at the Ministry of Sport, he oversees from investment governance prospective over 170 sports clubs, 300+ assets, and manages 1,000+ transactions annually valued at over SAR 2 billion. He has been integral to enhancing the financial sustainability of 24 stadiums and shaping investor agreements for assets. His strategic insights have directly influenced the privatization and operational optimization of sports entities across the Kingdom.
Fahad AlSubaie plays a pivotal role in the transformation of Saudi Arabia's sports sector into a dynamic and investment-ready landscape. As the Director of Club Investments at the Ministry of Sport, he oversees from investment governance prospective over 170 sports clubs, 300+ assets, and manages 1,000+ transactions annually valued at over SAR 2 billion. He has been integral to enhancing the financial sustainability of 24 stadiums and shaping investor agreements for assets. His strategic insights have directly influenced the privatization and operational optimization of sports entities across the Kingdom.
Abdullah Al Rasheed
Director of Investment Enablement, Ministry of Sport, KSA
In addition to his role in the Ministry of Sport, Abdullah acquires over a decade of an enriched, diversified experience in Private & Public sectors. Starting from the Banking industry in the Cash Management field with an exposure on Operations, Business Implementation, Product Creation & Management, to contributing into building the Strategic Partnership foundation with the private sector throughout his career in LCGPA.
Abdullah has a successful track record of building strong, sustainable partnerships with the private sector & state-owned companies, launching new innovative products into the market, and managing national initiatives which serves the national strategies.
In addition to his role in the Ministry of Sport, Abdullah acquires over a decade of an enriched, diversified experience in Private & Public sectors. Starting from the Banking industry in the Cash Management field with an exposure on Operations, Business Implementation, Product Creation & Management, to contributing into building the Strategic Partnership foundation with the private sector throughout his career in LCGPA.
Abdullah has a successful track record of building strong, sustainable partnerships with the private sector & state-owned companies, launching new innovative products into the market, and managing national initiatives which serves the national strategies.
Basim K. Ibrahim
Sport Investment Director, Ministry of Investment KSA
Basim K. Ibrahim, CLSS, CIPM, is passionate about the opportunities for sport development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He is a seasoned Investment Attraction & Development Manager with 20 years of diverse professional experience in Investment, IT, Training, Project Management, and Research.
A former Global Shaper at the World Economic Forum, Basim is a member of various professional organizations. He founded BMA Engineering in 2011 and co-founded BoardMaps in 2015, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.
His extensive international experience includes roles with INSPUR in China and CONCO in South Africa. Basim was a pivotal member of the joint technical team between SAP and Saudi Aramco from 2000 to 2005. Passionate about volunteering and dedicated to serving his country, Basim is a dynamic leader in the field of Business and Investment Development.
Basim K. Ibrahim, CLSS, CIPM, is passionate about the opportunities for sport development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He is a seasoned Investment Attraction & Development Manager with 20 years of diverse professional experience in Investment, IT, Training, Project Management, and Research.
A former Global Shaper at the World Economic Forum, Basim is a member of various professional organizations. He founded BMA Engineering in 2011 and co-founded BoardMaps in 2015, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.
His extensive international experience includes roles with INSPUR in China and CONCO in South Africa. Basim was a pivotal member of the joint technical team between SAP and Saudi Aramco from 2000 to 2005. Passionate about volunteering and dedicated to serving his country, Basim is a dynamic leader in the field of Business and Investment Development.
Basim Al Beladi
CEO, Al-Ansar Club
Begoña Santiago
CFOO, Global Football Holdings
Begoña Santiago is the Chief Financial and Operating Officer at Global Football Holdings (GFH), a multi-club ownership group with stakes in top-tier football clubs across Europe, including Brøndby IF (Denmark), Estoril Praia (Portugal), SK Beveren (Belgium), FC Augsburg (Germany), and other football-related ventures. She works closely with each club’s leadership, ensuring strategic alignment, operational excellence, and long-term sustainability.
With over 20 years of experience in finance and operations, Begoña brings a strategic, rational, and human-centered approach to sports investment. Over the past five years, GFH clubs have undergone a significant transformation -driven by close collaboration between the football and operations teams - resulting in improved performance on the pitch, strengthened governance, and enhanced financial results.
Her career includes senior roles at Findasense, Cabify, and Deloitte, where she led international financial restructurings and operational integrations. Today, she is deeply engaged in expanding GFH’s footprint across football ventures, including youth development, infrastructure, revenue diversification, and innovation, with a strong focus on sustainability.
Begoña is a committed advocate for sustainability in football and for advancing women's leadership - especially within the sport. She actively supports initiatives that promote visibility, equity, and opportunity for women in football, and regularly speaks at industry events on topics such as responsible investment, inclusive leadership, and the future of the football business.
Begoña Santiago is the Chief Financial and Operating Officer at Global Football Holdings (GFH), a multi-club ownership group with stakes in top-tier football clubs across Europe, including Brøndby IF (Denmark), Estoril Praia (Portugal), SK Beveren (Belgium), FC Augsburg (Germany), and other football-related ventures. She works closely with each club’s leadership, ensuring strategic alignment, operational excellence, and long-term sustainability.
With over 20 years of experience in finance and operations, Begoña brings a strategic, rational, and human-centered approach to sports investment. Over the past five years, GFH clubs have undergone a significant transformation -driven by close collaboration between the football and operations teams - resulting in improved performance on the pitch, strengthened governance, and enhanced financial results.
Her career includes senior roles at Findasense, Cabify, and Deloitte, where she led international financial restructurings and operational integrations. Today, she is deeply engaged in expanding GFH’s footprint across football ventures, including youth development, infrastructure, revenue diversification, and innovation, with a strong focus on sustainability.
Begoña is a committed advocate for sustainability in football and for advancing women's leadership - especially within the sport. She actively supports initiatives that promote visibility, equity, and opportunity for women in football, and regularly speaks at industry events on topics such as responsible investment, inclusive leadership, and the future of the football business.
Kamel Emad Badawy
Chief Data & Strategic Alliance Officer, Aspire Zone
Kamel Badawy is a distinguished business leader with over 20 years of experience across sports operations management, Investments, strategic partnerships, sponsorship, events management, and commercialization. As Chief of Data and Strategic Alliance at Aspire Zone Foundation, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s international reputation as a premier sports destination.
With expertise spanning marketing, business intelligence, procurement, and supply chain management, Kamel combines strategic vision with commercial acumen to deliver sustainable business growth. His leadership has driven high-impact collaborations, advanced data-driven strategies, and created new opportunities for innovation in the global sports industry.
Recognized as a visionary, he continues to champion excellence and inspire innovation, positioning Aspire Zone Foundation at the forefront of sports and business worldwide.
Kamel Badawy is a distinguished business leader with over 20 years of experience across sports operations management, Investments, strategic partnerships, sponsorship, events management, and commercialization. As Chief of Data and Strategic Alliance at Aspire Zone Foundation, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s international reputation as a premier sports destination.
With expertise spanning marketing, business intelligence, procurement, and supply chain management, Kamel combines strategic vision with commercial acumen to deliver sustainable business growth. His leadership has driven high-impact collaborations, advanced data-driven strategies, and created new opportunities for innovation in the global sports industry.
Recognized as a visionary, he continues to champion excellence and inspire innovation, positioning Aspire Zone Foundation at the forefront of sports and business worldwide.
Eng. Khalid A. Alhogail
Chairman of Saudi Spanish Business Council
Khalid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail, a Saudi civil engineer, has served as President of the International Association of Public Transport (IAPT) since June 2021. He is the first Arab president and the second foreign president to hold this position. He also serves as CEO and Managing Director of the Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO).
Khalid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail, a Saudi civil engineer, has served as President of the International Association of Public Transport (IAPT) since June 2021. He is the first Arab president and the second foreign president to hold this position. He also serves as CEO and Managing Director of the Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO).
Patricia Rodríguez Barrios
Partner, Bare
Patricia Rodríguez Barrios is a senior sports executive with over 15 years of experience across consulting and professional football. She began her career at PwC before joining SD Eibar in 2014, first as CFO and later as General Manager, becoming the first woman to hold such a role in a LaLiga club. She went on to serve as CEO of Elche CF and Granada CF, as well as Vice President of LaLiga.
Internationally, Patricia has advised Middle Eastern clubs on governance, finance, and organizational transformation. Today, she leads Bare, a consultancy focused on leadership and sports management, while serving on the ACB’s Economic Control Commission, the Advisory Board of World Football Summit, and mentoring at Sportboost.
Patricia Rodríguez Barrios is a senior sports executive with over 15 years of experience across consulting and professional football. She began her career at PwC before joining SD Eibar in 2014, first as CFO and later as General Manager, becoming the first woman to hold such a role in a LaLiga club. She went on to serve as CEO of Elche CF and Granada CF, as well as Vice President of LaLiga.
Internationally, Patricia has advised Middle Eastern clubs on governance, finance, and organizational transformation. Today, she leads Bare, a consultancy focused on leadership and sports management, while serving on the ACB’s Economic Control Commission, the Advisory Board of World Football Summit, and mentoring at Sportboost.
SPONSORS & PARTNERS
Event Partner
Event Partner
VENUE & GALLERY
BERNABÉU STADIUM, MADRID
Set to host EuroBasket 2029 and serve as a venue for the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Portugal and Morocco, the Bernabéu continues to reaffirm its status as one of the most prestigious and versatile sporting venues in the world.
MESIF Madrid 2025 is hosted at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium – home to Real Madrid CF. With a capacity of 84,000 and a €1.2 billion renovation nearing completion, the stadium now features a retractable roof, underground pitch storage, 360-degree screen, esports zone and a multi-purpose design.
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