Saudi Arabian Football Federation President Resigns Following Early Exit from 2026 World Cup

Saudi Arabia, the three-time Asian champions, finish bottom of Group H with two points from three games.

Published On 29 Jun 202629 Jun 2026

The president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation has resigned following the national team’s elimination in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Saudi Arabia concluded the tournament at the bottom of Group H with two points, securing only a 1-1 draw against Uruguay and a goalless match against Cape Verde, before suffering a 4-0 defeat to Spain.

“The outcome of the national team’s failure to progress beyond the group stage is deeply disappointing and falls short of our collective aspirations. I take full accountability for this result and extend my apologies to all stakeholders,” Yasser al-Misehal stated in a post on X.

He further noted, “Responsibility demands allowing the federation to begin anew, and I have chosen not to continue in my current role for the remainder of my term.”

Al-Misehal, who led the federation for seven years, was instrumental in Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the 2034 World Cup, a key component of the nation’s efforts to diversify its oil-dependent economy.

This marked Saudi Arabia’s third consecutive World Cup appearance, though the team has not advanced to the knockout rounds since 1994.

Seven of the 24 Asian teams in the tournament were eliminated in the group stage, with only Japan and Australia progressing to the round of 32.

The team’s early exit followed a string of underwhelming friendly performances in March, which led to the dismissal of head coach Herve Renard, ending his second tenure after he had previously replaced Roberto Mancini.

Over the past three years, Saudi Arabia has invested approximately $2 billion in football, attracting high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema to the Saudi Pro League, now among the world’s most financially competitive leagues.

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