Sportwashing 1 Human Rights 0

This time Adrian Goldberg reflects on Newcastle United’s hopes of winning their first major domestic trophy in 68 years when they play Manchester United in the Carabao Cup Final.    The Geordies – or the Toon as their known to their fans – have had a dramatic upturn in their fortunes since being bought by the Saudi Public Investment Fund in October 2021.   On Tyneside the Saudis have – generally – been warmly embraced despite their government's dismal human rights record. John Hird of No Saudi Toon is an exception, though, and has delivered a letter to the club asking manager Eddie Howe to speak up for the brother of a Saudi Arabian activist who faces the threat of execution. Produced in Birmingham by Adrian Goldberg.   Funded by subscriptions to the Byline Times.