The name of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal has returned to the forefront of the Saudi sports scene after Al-Hilal Club confirmed his sponsorship of funding the transfer deal of French star Karim Benzema. This move has reignited the debate over the role of prominent supporters in securing major star deals within the Saudi Roshn League.

Al-Hilal clarified that Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, the club's golden member, intervened directly to support the deal. The club's board of directors took the initiative to thank him for his financial contribution in completing the contract with Benzema, one of the most prominent names in world football.

The club pointed out that Prince Alwaleed bin Talal's support was not limited to a single deal, as he covered the full value of seven deals made by Al Hilal during the winter transfer window for the 2025-2026 season, as part of strengthening the team's lineup.

Karim Benzema joined Al Hilal on a free transfer with a contract lasting one and a half seasons, after terminating his contract with his former club, Al Ittihad.