Newcastle United have called on its supporters to stop coming to the stadium in Arab attire. The Magpies were recently acquired by Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia. That ensured that during last Sunday’s game against Tottenham Hotspur (2-3 defeat) the necessary supporters appeared dressed in robes at St. James’ Park.
“Newcastle is kindly asking supporters to refrain from wearing traditional Arab clothing or Middle Eastern-inspired headgear to games if they normally do not do so,” Newcastle wrote in a statement on its official website. “A number of supporters recently visited St. James’ Park wearing such headgear and robes to celebrate the club’s acquisition by Public Investment Fund (PIF), PCP Capital Partners and RB Sports & Media.”
“None of the new owners were offended by the fans’ clothing, who were celebrating the takeover in this way. It was a gesture intended and understood in a positive and welcoming manner,” the statement continued the Magpies. “However, there remains a possibility that the fans’ clothing style may be perceived as culturally inappropriate or an insult to other people. All visitors to the club are, as always, encouraged to wear what fits within the norm of their culture or religion and continue to reflect the broad and rich multicultural communities and groups that the club is proud to support.”
Public Investment Fund (PIF), PCP Capital Partners and RB Sports & Media took over the shares of club owner Mike Ashley two weeks ago for 350 million euros. These three companies together have an estimated equity capital of 350 billion euros and with that Newcastle suddenly has by far the richest owner in the world.
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