The Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, SOPC, in collaboration with global technology provider SAP, has successfully launched Phase 1 of its digital transformation, marking a pivotal step in modernising sports governance and operations across Saudi Arabia. Powered by RISE with SAP, this initiative was unveiled at the LEAP technology event in Riyadh, reinforcing SOPC’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to drive efficiency, innovation, and sustainable growth in Saudi Arabia’s sporting ecosystem.
As the independent governing body overseeing Saudi Arabia’s Olympic and Paralympic representation on the global stage, SOPC plays a crucial role in shaping the nation’s sports sector, policies, and strategic development.
The adoption of SAP S/4HANA, SAP SuccessFactors, SAP Ariba, and SAP Analytics Cloud, provides SOPC with real-time data visibility, automation of key business processes, and advanced analytics capabilities. These solutions, implemented by SAP Services, enable informed decision-making, enhanced governance, and long-term operational excellence.
Prior to this transformation, SOPC operated through complex manual processes. The transition to SAP’s AI-driven digital infrastructure has introduced a scalable and flexible system that aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s ambitions to establish a vibrant and technology-enabled sports economy. In its next phase, SOPC aims to extend these shared digital services to Saudi sports federations, ensuring a fully integrated and streamlined sports governance ecosystem.
Bakr Darwish, Chief Shared Services and Solutions Officer at SOPC, commented: “The successful go-live of RISE with SAP is a testament to the spirit of collaboration and teamwork that defines both sports and digital transformation. Working closely with SAP and our stakeholders, we identified the ideal technology solutions to support our mission of representing Saudi Arabia at the highest levels, while fostering a dynamic sports ecosystem in line with Vision 2030.
Saudi Arabia is committed to creating opportunities for athletes at every level, from amateur to elite, and this digital evolution is a key enabler of that vision. Moreover, our staff will benefit from cutting-edge HR management systems that enhance employee engagement and development.”
Andy Froemmel, Vice President and General Manager, Customer Services and Delivery, SAP Middle East and Africa – North, added: “We are proud to support SOPC in its digital transformation journey, leveraging RISE with SAP implementation methodology to ensure a clean-core approach. By achieving a fast time-to-value, SOPC now has a robust, scalable foundation to expand digital services to Saudi Arabia’s sports federations.
“With this future-ready platform, SOPC is well-positioned for upcoming projects and the adoption of AI-based technologies. This deployment reinforces our commitment to Vision 2030 and to empowering Saudi Arabia’s sporting sector with intelligent, cloud-based solutions.”
As Saudi Arabia continues to emerge as a global hub for sports governance, digital innovation, and international sporting events, SOPC remains at the forefront of this transformation. The country was recently announced as the host of the inaugural Olympic Esports Games 2025, further reinforcing its role as a force in the evolution of sports and technology.
With SAP’s digital solutions, SOPC is now better equipped to optimise operations, strengthen strategic decision-making, and enhance the future of sports governance in Saudi Arabia—setting new benchmarks for efficiency, sustainability, and excellence on the global stage.
The Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, SOPC is the independent governing body for Olympic and Paralympic sports in Saudi Arabia of Saudi Arabia, overseeing the nation’s participation in international sporting events, including the Olympic Games, Paralympic Games, and Asian Games. Committed to developing a world-class sports ecosystem, SOPC works in alignment with Vision 2030 to enhance sports governance, empower national federations, and drive innovation in Saudi Arabia’s sports sector.
Through strategic partnerships, advanced infrastructure, and cutting-edge digital transformation, SOPC is shaping the future of Saudi sports by fostering talent development, promoting inclusivity, and elevating Saudi Arabia’s presence on the global sporting stage. As Saudi Arabia continues to emerge as a hub for major sporting events, SOPC remains at the forefront of this evolution, ensuring the sustainable growth and excellence of the nation’s sports sector.
