SAUDI LEAGUE SUSPENDS CLUB AFTER CONTROVERSIAL CHANTS AT MATCH

The Saudi Pro League has suspended Al-Nassr’s matchday accreditation for a game after supporters were involved in chants referencing the late Liverpool forward Diogo Jota. The disciplinary action followed complaints surrounding the chants during a recent league fixture.

The incident reportedly occurred during Al-Nassr’s match against Al-Khaleej, with sections of the home crowd chanting Jota’s name in a manner that prompted a reaction from Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese forward had previously played alongside Jota for the Portugal national team.

Ronaldo reacted strongly to the incident and called for action to be taken over the chants. His response came after Jota’s death in a road accident in Spain earlier in 2026, an event that led to tributes from players, clubs and football organisations across the world.

Following an investigation, the Saudi Pro League imposed a one-match suspension on Al-Khaleej’s matchday accreditation. The sanction means the club will face restrictions related to its participation and organisation around an upcoming league fixture.

The decision comes as football authorities continue to enforce rules governing supporter conduct inside stadiums. The league has not indicated that the sanction will affect Al-Khaleej’s players or its ability to compete in the match itself, with the punishment focused on the club’s matchday accreditation.