Key facts
- An MP accepted £5,000 in freebies from Newcastle United.
- Concerns exist that hospitality has softened criticism of the club's Saudi owners.
- The PIF is the majority owner of Newcastle United.
- Newcastle United's revenues have more than doubled to £335.3m under the current ownership.
Concerns have been raised about Newcastle MPs potentially softening their criticism of Newcastle United's Saudi owners due to accepting hospitality and gifts. One MP has denied rowing back on previous criticism after accepting freebies valued at £5,000. The club, owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), has faced scrutiny over human rights issues in the kingdom. Despite a withdrawal of PIF backing from LIV Golf, club figures maintain the fund remains engaged with Newcastle United. The club's revenues have significantly increased under the new ownership, with plans for stadium and training ground improvements.