Al Hilal Withdraws from Saudi Super Cup
Moreover, the domestic competition calendar issued by SAFF on June 1 made no mention of the Super Cup being hosted in Hong Kong.The location was only announced on June 13, after the team had already departed for the U.S., and before any Club World Cup matches had been played. At the time, the duration of their international campaign remained uncertain.Al Hilal emphasized its pride in the Super Cup, a tournament it has won on multiple occasions.However, the club noted that a physical and muscular assessment of several players showed signs of extreme fatigue after a year-long campaign, compounded by national team duty and participation in the Club World Cup.The decision not to participate, it said, serves both the club's long-term interests and those of the Saudi national team, which is set to begin a crucial training camp in October ahead of World Cup qualification playoffs—featuring many Al Hilal players.The club called on SAFF to explore alternative solutions that would allow the tournament to proceed as planned in Hong Kong without its participation, and ensure the event achieves its intended marketing and promotional objectives.Al Hilal stressed that its decision stems from a need to preserve player health following an intensive season representing the Kingdom on the global stage.SAFF confirmed receipt of Al Hilal's decision and stated that it will initiate the necessary procedures under the relevant regulations.The federation added that the matter will be reviewed by the competent committees in accordance with the organizational rules of the Saudi Super Cup.Sources said that the federation is now considering inviting Al Ahli to replace Al Hilal, pending confirmation of the club's readiness. A final decision is expected soon.SAFF also dismissed the idea of granting Al Qadsiah automatic passage to the final, citing Article 8 of the Super Cup regulations, which treats post-draw withdrawals as violations. Such cases are referred to the Disciplinary and Ethics Committee, with fines of up to SR500,000 and compensation for damages potentially imposed.
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