Ant and Dec urged to support Newcastle's Saudi takeover amid controversy
- In October 2020, Ant and Dec were asked to promote an article opposing the Premier League's delays in the Saudi-led takeover of Newcastle United.
- Concerns regarding the consortium's links to the Saudi state prevented immediate approval, leading to public outcry and petitions.
- The takeover was finally completed in September 2021, once the consortium demonstrated adequate separation from the Saudi government.
In October 2020, Ant and Dec, popular television personalities from the UK, reportedly aided in promoting an article discussing opposition to a failed takeover of Newcastle United by a consortium backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. The article, shared on Twitter shortly after receiving a request from former Newcastle director Amanda Staveley, claimed that the Premier League was potentially violating UK antitrust laws by delaying the approval process. Initially, the £300 million takeover offer was put in jeopardy due to concerns regarding the closeness of the consortium to the Saudi Arabian state, particularly under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. A supporters' petition advocated for transparency concerning the Premier League's reasons for the delay, which included pressures directed at chief executive Richard Masters. Following unsuccessful arbitration talks to resolve the dispute, the consortium withdrew its bid. However, after additional evidence of separation from the Saudi state was presented, the £305 million deal was finally ratified in September 2021, allowing for a new chapter in Newcastle's ownership and governance.