Spit Sparks 10-Game Ban: Shabab Star Slams Referee in Saudi Pro League
12 January 2026
Incident Overview
Abdullah Motook, a winger for Al Shabab, faced a harsh sanction in the Roshen Saudi Pro League after an incident in the clash with Al Taawoun last Friday in Round 14.
In stoppage time, with the match in Taawoun’s favor, Motook received a yellow card but reacted by insulting the referee and spitting at him, earning an immediate red card.
Disciplinary Decision and Aftermath
Three days later, the Disciplinary and Ethics Committee suspended the 22-year-old for 10 matches in all official competitions eligible for him, including the automatic ban tied to the red card.
The body also imposed a hefty fine of 100,000 riyals to be paid to the Saudi Football Federation, noting that the decision remains open to appeal.
As a consequence Motook will miss 10 Roshen matches for Shabab, following their exit from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup, with Neom, Al-Nassr, Al Najma, Al Khaleej, Al-Hazm, Al-Fayha, Al-Kholoud, Al Ahli, Damac and Riyadh on the schedule.
The young winger had appeared for Shabab in 11 matches this season across league and cup, without scoring or assisting.
Note to goalkeepers: keep your distance; spit equals red, not a hug.
And yes, Motook now holds the rare title of 'most theatrical spitter' in a 2026 edition.
