Saudi Arabia’s early FIFA World Cup exit prompts federation chief to resign
Summary
The president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, Yasser al-Misehal, resigned after the national team was eliminated in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Saudi Arabia finished last in their group with two draws and one loss, failing to advance to the knockout rounds.Key Facts
- Saudi Arabia earned two points in the group stage with a 1-1 draw against Uruguay and a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde.
- They lost 4-0 to Spain, one of the tournament favorites.
- Yasser al-Misehal took full responsibility for the team's poor performance and apologized.
- Al-Misehal has led the Saudi Arabian Football Federation for seven years and helped secure Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 World Cup.
- Saudi Arabia has not reached the knockout stage since 1994.
- Seven Asian teams, including Saudi Arabia, were eliminated in the group stage; only Japan and Australia advanced.
- French coach Herve Renard was fired before the tournament after poor friendly match results.
- Saudi Arabia has spent nearly $2 billion on football in three years, attracting star players to its domestic league.
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