French footballer Paul Pogba has entered a new venture by becoming a shareholder and ambassador for Al Haboob, a Saudi‑Arabia‑based camel‑racing team. The 32‑year‑old, who currently plays for AS Monaco in Ligue 1, joins a team that competes in camel‑racing events across the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf and is the first modern camel‑racing outfit to race internationally.
Pogba’s career has featured several high‑profile milestones, most notably his record‑breaking 2016 transfer from Juventus to Manchester United, which made him the world’s most expensive player at the time. His involvement with Al Haboob represents a unique blend of sports and cultural interests, highlighting the growing appeal of camel racing as a competitive discipline.
Camel racing is a traditional sport with deep roots and a large following in the Middle East, but it has faced criticism over animal‑welfare concerns and the historic use of child jockeys. These issues have sparked calls for stricter regulations and higher standards to protect both the animals and participants. Despite these challenges, the sport remains popular and culturally significant throughout the Gulf, attracting investment from numerous teams and owners.
Pogba’s investment underscores the increasing interest in camel racing and is expected to raise the sport’s global profile through Al Haboob’s international competitions. As the sport evolves, greater attention will likely be given to ethical and welfare considerations. With Pogba’s high‑profile ambassadorship, Al Haboob is poised to gain more international recognition, potentially contributing to the development of camel racing as a worldwide sport. The team’s performances and Pogba’s role will be closely watched as the sport navigates its challenges and opportunities for growth, shaping the future of international camel‑racing standards.
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