English football's independent regulator faces a major challenge as Saudi Arabian government official Turki Al-Sheikh attempts to invest in Derby County.
Al-Sheikh chairs Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority and is a close associate of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
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He is looking to purchase a stake in the Championship club.
The 44-year-old has previously owned clubs in Egypt and Spain and heavily influences world boxing. Human rights groups criticize him over allegations of state-led sportswashing.
Saudi Arabia faces ongoing criticism regarding its human rights record, use of the death penalty, treatment of women, and anti-LGBT stance.
Any investment from Al-Sheikh requires formal approval from the Independent Football Regulator (IFR). The IFR was established last year to maintain the integrity of English football.
The regulator recently implemented a stricter owners, directors, and senior executives test. It took over regulatory responsibilities previously managed by the English Football League for Championship clubs.
Derby County, the EFL, the IFR, and representatives for Al-Sheikh have all declined to comment on the potential investment.
Amnesty's Warning
"This is a defining test for English football's new independent regulator," said Felix Jakens, head of campaigns at Amnesty International UK.
"Will it allow a senior representative of a government directly implicated in mass human rights violations to take control of one of the country's oldest football clubs?
The regulator must ask these questions and answer them transparently."
With Newcastle United already under Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund ownership, Amnesty warned that Al-Sheikh's bid would drastically expand the nation's sporting footprint.
