Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Al-Othaim Sport is excited to announce a new partnership with two-time freestyle football world champion and global icon Sean Garnier, bringing his internationally acclaimed UrbanBall League and Academy to Saudi Arabia. Known for his electrifying skills and social media presence with over 20 million followers, Garnier has captivated audiences worldwide, including famous players like Neymar, who have been caught off guard by his astonishing moves. Through this collaboration, Al-Othaim Sport and Sean Garnier will establish UrbanBall locations within Al Othaim’s shopping malls across the Kingdom, inspiring a new generation of football enthusiasts and elevating Saudi Arabia’s place on the global freestyle football map.
Over the past three years, Sean Garnier, in partnership with EX Sports DMCC, has developed UrbanBall League into a worldwide sensation. With a unique 1v1 format that packs intense, high-energy action into short matches, the league has drawn over 2 billion views on social media and fostered a global community of freestyle fans and players. As a proven format, UrbanBall League’s 1v1 games are now played weekly worldwide, attracting players eager to showcase their skills in this thrilling, fast-paced style.
Building on the success of the global UrbanBall League, Garnier has also created the UrbanBall Academy to train young players in the art of 1v1 competition. Through the academy, kids learn the essential skills, techniques, and strategies needed for one-on-one matchups, empowering them with the confidence and ability to excel on the field. This distinctive format encourages young athletes to express themselves, develop agility and ball control, and build mental resilience—all vital qualities for aspiring football players.
The UrbanBall Academy, soon available in Al Othaim Malls, is a unique training opportunity for young Saudis to learn from one of the world’s foremost freestyle icons and develop as part of a growing community of skilled and confident players. By bringing this innovative approach to football into its world-class facilities, Al-Othaim Sport reaffirms its commitment to advancing Saudi Arabia’s sports landscape and inspiring the Kingdom’s youth to pursue active, healthy lifestyles.
Statement from Al-Othaim Sport’ CEO
Almohanad Alzooaabe, CEO of Al-Othaim Sport, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Sean Garnier and the UrbanBall Academy to Saudi Arabia, marking his first location in the Kingdom. As a father of a young teenager, I see firsthand the need for focused, one-on-one training that truly invests in each child’s development. Most traditional academies try to train large groups at once, which often dilutes the attention and quality of training kids receive. The UrbanBall Academy’s 1v1 format is exactly what kids like my son need to build confidence, skills, and passion for the game. We are excited to bring this impactful program to our communities and look forward to seeing the success it will have here.”
About Al-Othaim Sport
Al-Othaim Sport is redefining sports and fitness experiences in Saudi Arabia by establishing family-centered fitness and sports destinations within Al Othaim Malls. With a mission to make sports accessible, enjoyable, and inspiring for all, Al-Othaim Sport provides state-of-the-art facilities that foster talent development, community engagement, and lifelong wellness for all ages and skill levels.
For more information, please visit Al-Othaim Sport.