Saudi Arabia football federation president Yasser Al-Misehal stepped down from his position on Sunday, taking responsibility for the national team's early elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Saudis finished at the bottom of Group H with two points, following draws against Uruguay and Cape Verde and a loss to Spain.
Al-Misehal takes full responsibility
In a statement posted on social media, Al-Misehal said: “The national team’s failure to qualify for the next round of the World Cup is a result that falls short of all our ambitions. I bear full responsibility for it, apologising to everyone who hoped to see our team in a better position.” He added that he decided not to continue until the end of his current term, believing that accountability requires opening the door for a new phase.
Seven-year tenure and World Cup bid role
Al-Misehal had served as federation president for seven years and played a key role in Saudi Arabia's successful bid to host the 2034 World Cup. His resignation comes after the national team's third consecutive World Cup appearance and seventh overall, but the campaign was marred by a last-minute coaching change.
Impact of coaching change
Less than two months before the tournament, the Saudi federation replaced head coach Herve Renard with Georgios Donis, disrupting preparations. The team managed only two points from three matches, failing to advance beyond the group stage.
Government investment in football
The early exit is a setback for Saudi Arabia's ambitious football strategy, which has seen the government invest heavily in the sport. Saudi clubs have signed high-profile international stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar Junior to raise domestic standards and elevate the national team's competitiveness.
