Foreign Whistles, Big Stakes: Saudi Cup Semis Prompt Foreign Referee Bids

Foreign referees eyed for the King's Cup semis

The two clubs, Al Ahli and Al Ittihad, are chasing progression in the most valuable trophy of Saudi football.

Both clubs have submitted requests to hire foreign match officials to referee their semi-finals of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup, scheduled for March 18.

According to Al-Riyadhiya newspaper, the move underscores the fixtures' importance in the season, with each side eager to stay in contention for the trophy.

It is planned that Al-Kholood will host Al Ittihad at Al-Hazm Stadium, while Al Ahli will meet visiting Al Hilal at the Al-Inmaa Stadium in King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah.

Sources said the two clubs filed formal requests through the MySAFF online system more than 14 days before the fixtures, attaching receipts for the mandated fees.

The system, in use since last season, gives clubs complete freedom to request foreign referees for any number of matches, whether hosting or visiting.

The cost to hire the foreign crew sits at 375,000 riyals when a VAR official is included, rising to 450,000 riyals with an additional fourth official, per the official mechanism.

The article notes that this approach aims to ensure fairness and avoid disputes over refereeing, while the clubs hope to keep the dream of the title within reach.

Punchline: If football ever needed mortgage-approved whistle-blowers, it’s this Cup.

Punchline 2: With budgets like this, even the VAR might request a raise—and maybe a vacation to the beach ball factory.