Al-Hilal football club decided not to participate in the 2025 Saudi Super Cup in Hong Kong due to severe player fatigue and leave shortfall. The club cited flight delays and Club World Cup participation, reducing annual leave to 21-24 days, below SAFF’s required 28-day minimum. Medical reviews confirmed extreme fatigue after continuous competition.
The move emphasizes prioritizing player health over exhibition tournaments, with Saudi powerhouse Al-Hilal officially withdrawing from the Super Cup citing player exhaustion following a packed season and limited rest post Club World Cup in the US. The club communicated to SAFF that participation would violate player leave entitlements and health protocols.
Club Statement and Background
In an official statement to SAFF, Al-Hilal detailed its decision, arguing for a mandated 28-day annual leave for players as per SAFF regulations. Due to schedule complications, players would only get 21 days of rest if they proceeded with the Super Cup. The club’s medical staff raised concerns over significant physical fatigue among key players after a year of non-stop competition. Al-Hilal pulled out in the interest of player safety and overall performance.
The tipping point arose from clashing schedules where the Super Cup draw coincided with the start of Al-Hilal’s Club World Cup campaign, resulting in mere 21 days of rest due to flight delays and late venue confirmation in Hong Kong.
Al-Hilal Football Club
Based in Riyadh, Al-Hilal boasts a rich footballing history spanning over six decades, garnering numerous titles including the Saudi Super Cup and multiple AFC Champions League victories. With a dedicated fan base and top-tier squad, Al-Hilal is a renowned football brand across the Gulf, engaging with international competition against premier teams.
Player Welfare and Implications
Al-Hilal’s withdrawal signifies a growing trend among elite clubs, prioritizing player health over short-term success. The decision may influence football scheduling reforms in the region, impacting the Saudi Super Cup’s appeal and broadcasting. With World Cup qualifiers ahead, Al-Hilal’s break aligns players with national team plans, offering crucial recovery time.
The move underscores ongoing challenges between clubs and organizers regarding player welfare, calendar planning, and effective communication in the footballing landscape.
