Neom Executive Faces Backlash Over Racist Rant Following Worker Deaths

A top executive associated with Neom, the world’s largest construction project, is facing intense scrutiny after a racist outburst linked to the death of three workers. The reported incident has cast a shadow over the ambitious $500 billion sci-fi city project in Saudi Arabia.

Disturbing allegations

Wayne Borg, a former Hollywood executive hired to helm Neom’s media division, allegedly referred to the project’s blue-collar workers from the Indian subcontinent as “f—ing morons” and suggested that this was why “white people” occupied superior positions. The Wall Street Journal reported that Borg’s comments were captured in a recording, where he lamented the inconvenience of having to attend a meeting following the fatalities. “A whole bunch of people die so we’ve got to have a meeting on a Sunday night,” Borg reportedly said. “You can’t train for stupidity. The white blokes are at the top of the tree,” he added.

Tragic accidents

The deaths of the three workers were attributed to separate incidents involving a falling pipe, a collapsed wall, and mishandled explosives. The executive’s remarks have sparked outrage and raised questions about the working conditions and management culture at the Neom construction site.

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Neom’s response

In response to the allegations, Neom has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation. “Any allegations of wrongdoing and misconduct are thoroughly investigated,” the statement read. “If any wrongdoing is substantiated, we take appropriate action.” Workers at the site have alleged a culture of unprofessionalism, with senior officials and top management frequently berating both workers and junior staff.

Previous controversies

This is not the first time Neom has faced controversy. In May, a BBC report cited an ex-intelligence officer who claimed that Saudi authorities had authorized the use of lethal force to clear land for the megaproject.

What is Neom?

Neom is the brainchild of Saudi Arabian Crown Prince and de facto ruler Mohammed bin Salman. Announced in 2017, the futuristic, zero-carbon city aims to redefine urban living with vertical layers of buildings for work, living, farming, and leisure, stretching 170 kilometers into the horizon. Initially set for completion by 2030, the project has since been significantly downsized to 2.4 kilometers. The initial goal of accommodating 1.5 million residents in ‘The Line’ has been scaled back, with current estimates projecting fewer than 300,000 residents within the deadline.

Financial struggles

Reports indicate that Neom is grappling with financial challenges, facing difficulties in raising the necessary funds and potentially facing further downsizing amid escalating costs.

This incident adds another layer of complexity to the already ambitious and controversial Neom project, raising questions about its future and the treatment of its workforce.