Saudi Arabia Football Chief Resigns After World Cup Exit

The president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, Yasser Al-Misehal, has resigned following the national team’s failure to advance beyond the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Saudi Arabia finished bottom of Group H with two points after drawing 1–1 with Uruguay and 0–0 with Cape Verde, before suffering a heavy 4–0 defeat to Spain.

Al-Misehal said he accepted full responsibility for the disappointing performance and decided to step down before the end of his term.

“The national team’s failure to reach the next round is below our ambitions, and I take full responsibility. I apologise to everyone who expected a better result,” he stated.

Misehal, who led the federation for seven years, was instrumental in Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, a key part of the country’s plan to expand its economy beyond oil.

Saudi Arabia’s World Cup campaign came after a difficult period, including poor friendly match results that led to French coach Hervé Renard leaving his position after returning for a second spell.

The Gulf nation has invested billions of dollars into football in recent years, attracting global stars including Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema to the Saudi Pro League.

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