Salisbury FC Set for Kuwait Expedition After Fan-Fueled Send-Off

Following Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Folkestone Invicta, Salisbury FC players and coaching staff took to the Andrews Terrace at The Mac Stadium to thank supporters — only to be met with an unexpected chant.

“Kuwait away ole, ole,” roared the National League South faithful, setting the tone for what lies ahead.

Within 24 hours of that home celebration, the squad will be bound for the Middle East.

“Straight away we all said, ‘yeah, we’re all in,” recalled midfielder Luke Russe. “It’s a unique opportunity, and as players we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who made this trip possible. I’ve been at this level for a long time, and I’ve never experienced anything like it.”

The five-day itinerary includes a fixture against Al Qadsia — one of Kuwait’s most decorated clubs with over 50 major trophies — before the team returns to face Dulwich Hamlet in the FA Cup third qualifying round on Saturday.

The visit forms part of the club’s deepening ties with Kuwait, strengthened by owner Ali Alhamad, who acquired Salisbury in 2025. Officials hope the trip will drive commercial growth while giving players exposure to a new footballing culture.

The Mohammad Al-Hamad Stadium, with a capacity of 22,000 — more than five times that of Salisbury’s Mac Stadium — will host the encounter.

“We’d love to win the game,” said Russe, “but equally, this is about the experience and what it means for the club. We’re a young squad, so to immerse ourselves in a different culture and way of life is invaluable. It’ll be a fantastic opportunity for the players, the staff, and it’ll bring the whole club even closer together.”

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