Saudi football federation chief steps down following World Cup elimination

Saudi Arabia's Football Federation president has announced his resignation following the Green Falcons' first‑round exit from the World Cup.

The team ended last in Group H, earning two points from draws against Uruguay (1–1) and Cape Verde (0–0) before suffering a 4–0 loss to Spain.

“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. I offer my apologies to everyone who hoped to see our team in a better position,” Yasser al-Misehal wrote on X late Sunday.

“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,” he added.

Misehal, who led the federation for seven years, was instrumental in Saudi Arabia's successful bid to host the 2034 World Cup, a key element of its plan to diversify an oil‑dependent economy.

This tournament marked Saudi Arabia's third consecutive appearance at the World Cup.

Earlier in March, a string of disappointing friendly warm‑up results had led to the dismissal of French coach Herve Renard, ending his second stint after he had replaced Italian Roberto Mancini.

Over the past three years, the Gulf monarchy has poured almost two billion dollars into football, attracting stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Karim Benzema to the Saudi Pro League, which has become one of the world's most lucrative competitions.

AFP