Minister of Sports Receives Al-Ahli Club Leadership Following AFC Champions League Victory
In a celebratory event held at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, the Minister of Sports and President of the Saudi Arabian Olympic and Paralympic Committee, welcomed the president and members of the Al-Ahli Club Board, along with the coaching and administrative staff, as well as the players of the first football team. This gathering commemorated the club’s recent triumph in the 2025 AFC Champions League, where they secured the title by defeating Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale. The occasion was also graced by the presence of His Excellency Assistant Minister of Sports Mr. Abdulilah bin Saad Dallak, President of the Saudi Football Federation Yasser Al-Mishal, and several other officials from the Ministry.
During the meeting, Prince Abdulaziz expressed his immense pride in the remarkable performance exhibited by the players, which he characterized as a testament to the evolution of football in Saudi Arabia. He praised the high spirits demonstrated by the athletes, emphasizing that their collective effort was instrumental in achieving this prestigious accomplishment. The minister acknowledged that this victory stems from the substantial support provided by the nation’s leadership towards the sports sector, which encompasses a wide range of disciplines and all age groups.
In his concluding remarks to the team, the Minister underscored the importance of maintaining momentum and dedicating further effort to continue elevating the Kingdom’s profile in continental and global arenas. He reiterated that these achievements are not only a source of national pride but also an inspiration for future generations, encouraging them to aspire to excellence in sports.
This reception serves as a reminder of the significant investments and organizational developments that have been made in Saudi sports, particularly in football. The Kingdom has been increasingly committed to fostering talent and enhancing competitive standards, paving the way for clubs like Al-Ahli to compete successfully on international platforms.
The victory in the AFC Champions League marks a milestone not just for Al-Ahli but for Saudi football as a whole, signifying the country’s rising stature in the sport. The enthusiasm surrounding this triumph reflects a broader cultural commitment to sports and athletics, which has become an integral part of the national identity.
The Minister’s acknowledgment of the players’ dedication illustrates the focus on nurturing talent and building an environment conducive to success. Such achievements are pivotal for inspiring youth across the nation, demonstrating that hard work, dedication, and perseverance can yield remarkable outcomes.
As the Al-Ahli Club celebrates this victory, the emphasis on future efforts highlights the ongoing journey of sporting excellence that the Kingdom aspires to uphold. The Minister’s call for sustained effort resonates strongly, as it serves both as a motivational message to the current athletes and as a challenge for future teams to strive for greatness in every competition.
The event not only celebrated a momentous victory but also reinforced the commitment of the Saudi government to the development of sports. With robust backing from leadership and a clear vision for the future, the landscape of Saudi football is set for even greater achievements in the years to come.
In summary, the reception of the Al-Ahli leadership and players by Prince Abdulaziz was a moment of pride for the Kingdom, reflecting both the triumph of the club at a prestigious level and the larger narrative of Saudi Arabia’s ascent in the world of sports. Such celebrations are essential in recognizing the hard work and dedication of athletes and in laying the groundwork for future successes that continue to enhance the country’s reputation internationally.
