Saudi Arabian Football Federation President Yasser Al-Misehal has resigned following the Green Falcons’ elimination from the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Al-Misehal announced his decision on social media after Saudi Arabia finished bottom of Group H with two points from three matches.
The Green Falcons drew 1-1 with Uruguay and 0-0 with Cape Verde before suffering a 4-0 defeat to Spain, ending their World Cup campaign in the first round.
Explaining his decision, Al-Misehal accepted responsibility for the team’s failure to reach the knockout stage.
He wrote on X: “The failure of the national team to qualify for the next round of the World Cup is a result that falls short of all our ambitions, and I bear full responsibility for it.
“I offer my apologies to everyone who hoped to see our team in a better position.”
He added: “A sense of responsibility requires giving the opportunity to open a new chapter, and I have decided not to continue until the end of my current term.”
The resignation brings an end to Al-Misehal’s seven-year tenure at the helm of Saudi football.
The Saudi Arabian Football Federation is expected to begin the process of electing a new board of directors following his departure.
During his time in office, Al-Misehal played a leading role in Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, a key part of the country’s long-term football development strategy.
His exit comes despite Saudi Arabia investing nearly $2 billion in football over the past three years to strengthen the Saudi Pro League and develop local talent.
Saudi Arabia were making their third consecutive World Cup appearance at the tournament.
