Saudi football chief resigns after World Cup exit

The president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, Yasser Al-Misehal, resigned on Monday, June 29, 2026, taking responsibility for the national team's early exit from the FIFA World Cup. The resignation follows Saudi Arabia's elimination in the group stage of the tournament, held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Al-Misehal said the team's failure to reach the knockout round fell short of the nation's ambitions and that he bore full responsibility. He apologized to supporters and stated that stepping aside would allow for a new chapter for Saudi football. He confirmed that procedures would begin to elect a new board of directors in accordance with federation regulations. Al-Misehal had been at the helm of the federation for seven years and was serving a term set to run through 2027.

Saudi Arabia, a three-time Asian champion, finished at the bottom of Group H with two points from three matches. Their campaign included a 1-1 draw with Uruguay, a goalless draw with tournament debutants Cape Verde, and a heavy 4-0 defeat to Spain. The result extends a long pattern of underachievement for the national team at the...