Saudi soccer bodies condemn fans' chants targeting Neves

14/09/2026

RIYADH, Sept 14: The Saudi Arabian Football Federation and Saudi Pro League have condemned chants by some Al-Taawoun fans targeting Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves during their recent league clash, after supporters invoked the death of his close friend and Portugal teammate Diogo Jota.

A video widely circulated on social media showed an exchange between Neves and several Taawoun supporters, who chanted Jota’s name in an apparent attempt to provoke the Portuguese international. Neves responded by pointing toward the sky.

In a joint statement, the Saudi federation and league described the behavior as unacceptable and contrary to the values of Saudi football and sportsmanship.

“Exploiting personal tragedies to insult or provoke others is unacceptable behavior that has no place in Saudi football,” the statement said.

The authorities added that the relevant committees had monitored the incident and launched the necessary disciplinary procedures in accordance with the applicable regulations. Any resulting measures will be announced once the procedures are completed.

The incident drew widespread criticism from the sporting community, including Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo, Jota’s former Portugal teammate.

Commenting on an Instagram post, Ronaldo called on the league to take action against such behavior, saying: “The league must act and punish this kind of fan behavior. This is no longer football, and there must be limits.”