Saudi Arabia Chief Resigns After World Cup Exit

Saudi Arabia’s football leadership has been shaken following the resignation of Yasser Al-Misehal, president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, after the Green Falcons’ disappointing performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Saudi Arabia finished bottom of Group H with two points, drawing against Uruguay and Cape Verde but suffering a heavy 4–0 defeat to Spain. The early exit ended hopes of progressing to the knockout stages.

Al-Misehal announced his resignation on Sunday, stating he bore full responsibility for the team’s failure. “The failure of the national team to qualify for the next round of the World Cup is a result that falls short of all our ambitions, and I bear full responsibility for it,” he wrote on X. He added that stepping down was necessary to open a new chapter for Saudi football.

Al-Misehal had led the federation for seven years and played a key role in securing Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the 2034 World Cup. His tenure coincided with the kingdom’s massive investment in football, part of its broader economic diversification strategy.

Under his leadership, Saudi Arabia spent nearly $2 billion in recent years to elevate the domestic league, attracting global stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema. The Saudi Pro League has since become one of the most lucrative competitions worldwide.

The resignation follows a turbulent period for the national team’s technical bench. French coach Hervé Renard was dismissed earlier in March after poor friendly results, ending his second spell in charge. Renard had returned to replace Italian Roberto Mancini, but neither coach managed to deliver consistent success.

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The federation now faces the task of rebuilding both leadership and technical direction ahead of future competitions, including preparations for the 2034 World Cup on home soil.

Analysts say Al-Misehal’s exit underscores the pressure on football administrators in countries investing heavily in the sport. Saudi Arabia’s ambitions extend beyond domestic success, with the 2034 World Cup seen as a global showcase of its sporting and economic transformation.

The resignation also highlights the challenges of balancing high-profile investments in star players with the performance of the national team. Despite the influx of talent into the Saudi Pro League, the Green Falcons have struggled to translate domestic growth into international success.

The federation is expected to announce interim leadership soon, while discussions continue on long-term reforms. For Saudi Arabia, the focus will be on strengthening grassroots development, stabilising coaching structures, and ensuring the national team can compete at the highest level.

Al-Misehal’s departure marks the end of a significant era in Saudi football administration, but it also opens the door for new leadership tasked with delivering results that match the country’s global ambitions.