Saudi Football Federation Chief Quits After Early World Cup Elimination

Saudi Football Federation president Yasser al-Misehal has resigned after the Green Falcons failed to progress beyond the group stage of the World Cup.

Saudi Arabia ended bottom of Group H with two points after drawing 1-1 with Uruguay, playing out a goalless draw against Cape Verde and losing 4-0 to Spain.

In a statement posted on X on Sunday, al-Misehal apologised for the team’s performance and accepted responsibility for the disappointing outing.

“The failure of the national team to qualify for the next round of the World Cup is a result that falls short of all our ambitions, and I bear full responsibility for it,” he said.

“I offer my apologies to everyone who hoped to see our team in a better position.”

Explaining his decision to step down, he added: “A sense of responsibility requires giving the opportunity to open a new chapter, and I have decided not to continue until the end of my current term.”

Al-Misehal had led the federation for seven years and played a key role in Saudi Arabia securing hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup.

Saudi Arabia was competing in its third consecutive World Cup tournament.

Earlier this year, poor results in preparatory friendlies led to the exit of French coach Herve Renard during his second stint in charge after replacing Roberto Mancini.

Saudi Arabia has heavily invested in football in recent years, spending nearly $2 billion to attract stars including Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Karim Benzema to the Saudi Pro League.

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