AFC Champions League Elite Kicks Off with Star-Studded Saudi Ambitions

The AFC Champions League Elite begins with Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Riyad Mahrez aiming to lead Saudi clubs to victory. Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli are among the favorites. The league has spent over $1 billion on transfers and revamped its format. The winner will receive $10 million in prize money.

The inaugural AFC Champions League Elite kicks off Monday, featuring football superstars Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Riyad Mahrez who aim to propel their Saudi Arabian clubs to Asian glory.

Key teams, including Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli, are among the top contenders. These clubs, part of the burgeoning Saudi Pro League (SPL), have collectively spent over $1 billion in the 2023 and 2024 transfer windows to bring elite players from Europe's premier leagues.

The revamped tournament format sees the number of participating teams reduced from 40 to 24, split into east and west geographic zones. This change aims to enhance competition and visibility, with the winner's prize money increased to $10 million, up from $4 million last season.

(With inputs from agencies.)