Derby Banner Backlash: Al-Ittihad Faces Heavy Sanctions
25 December 2025
What sparked the ruling
The Disciplinary and Ethics Committee of the Saudi Football Federation issued stern sanctions against Al-Ittihad after fans displayed a banner with words deemed inappropriate during the Jeddah derby against Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League.
The sanctions in detail
The punishment includes a 200,000 riyals fine, the next league match to be played behind closed doors at home, and the stadium to remain completely closed.
Additionally, the ban on fans was suspended for four months; if any violation of article 72 occurs during the suspension, the sanction will take effect.
The sanction followed reports that fans displayed banners containing offensive phrases, observed by match officials and recorded by authorities, during the derby, and discussed in a formal hearing.
One banner read 5 million reflecting the number of Al-Ittihad supporters since professionalism began, and another proclaimed in every language the stain of relegation will never be erased.
The clash, between Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli, highlighted a broader issue of fan conduct in the league and led to the decision to reinforce stadium discipline.
Punchline: Oops, banner censored.
Punchline: Penalties over, committee still sharpening the pen.
