The Saudi Football Federation and the Saudi Pro League have issued a joint statement condemning unacceptable fan behavior during the match between Al-Taawoun and Al-Hilal. The statement followed the wide circulation of a video showing an altercation between some Al-Taawoun fans and Al-Hilal player Ruben Neves, during which chants referencing Diogo Jota were heard. Neves was seen gesturing toward the sky in response.
Joint Statement from Saudi Football Authorities
In their joint statement, the Saudi Football Federation and the Saudi Pro League expressed their disapproval of the actions of some fans present at the match, stating that such behavior contradicts the values of Saudi football and sportsmanship. The statement emphasized that exploiting personal tragedies to insult or provoke is unacceptable and has no place in Saudi football.
The authorities also confirmed that the relevant committees have monitored these practices and have begun taking regulatory measures in accordance with approved regulations. The specific actions will be announced once completed.
Ronaldo and Others React
The incident sparked widespread reactions in the sports community, most notably from Portugal and Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo, a former teammate of Jota in the Portuguese national team. In a comment on an Instagram post, Ronaldo wrote that the league must act and punish this type of fan behavior, adding that it is no longer football and that limits must be set. He also said that individuals who behave in this manner should not be allowed to enter stadiums again.
Ronaldo was not alone in criticizing the chants. Al-Ahli player Saleh Abu Al-Shamat wrote a lengthy message condemning the incident, describing what happened as “haram and wrong.”
Match Context
Al-Hilal had achieved a large victory over Al-Taawoun with a score of 6-0, after which Al-Taawoun decided to dismiss their coach following the loss.