President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation resigns after 2026 World Cup failure

The president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, Yasser Al-Misehal, announced his resignation this Sunday, just days after Saudi Arabia’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup at the group stage. After seven years at the helm, he chose to take full responsibility for this setback and hand over the reins before the end of his term.

In a lengthy statement, Yasser Al-Misehal first expressed his deep gratitude to the Saudi authorities, especially the King and Crown Prince, for their ongoing support of football development in the Kingdom. He also praised the support of the Minister of Sports, whom he considers a key figure in the progress made in recent years.

Yasser Al-Misehal takes full responsibility

Reflecting on the national team’s journey, the official acknowledged that the results at the World Cup fell far short of expectations.

“Our national team’s elimination before the next round is a result that does not match our ambitions. I take full responsibility and apologize to everyone who hoped to see our team go further,” he stated.

Believing that a new cycle needed to begin, Al-Misehal announced he would not complete his term. The Federation will soon initiate the electoral process to appoint a new board of directors, in accordance with current regulations.

A chapter closes for Saudi football

Despite stepping down, the former president assured that he would continue to serve Saudi sport in other ways. “I am leaving my position, but, God willing, I will remain a faithful servant to my country and a supporter of everything that contributes to the development of Saudi sport,” he affirmed.

This resignation marks the end of a seven-year era at the head of Saudi football. While his tenure saw several structural advances and the Kingdom’s football rise on the international stage, it ends with a major sporting disappointment as the Green Falcons exited the 2026 World Cup early. A new leadership will now be tasked with reigniting the national team’s ambitions for the challenges ahead.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.