From Cristiano Ronaldo to Neymar, Saudi Arabia has invested hundreds of millions to recruit top soccer players, while pouring millions more into golf. In parallel the regime is offering to “normalize” relations with Israel in exchange for a U.S.-Saudi defense pact, more weapons, and a civilian nuclear program. What explains these seemingly unrelated sporting deals and diplomatic overtures? What to make of the proposed alliance, given the authoritarian regime’s ongoing violation of rights? Should American soldiers risk their lives defending Saudi Arabia? A discussion with Elan Journo and Nikos Sotirakopoulos. Recorded October 4, 2023.