After losing the Saudi Super Cup final to Al Hilal, with Jorge Jesus, forward Abderrazak Hamdallah was whipped after splashing water at a fan.
The incident occurred after the final whistle of the Saudi Super Cup, where Al Ittihad suffered a 4-1 defeat against Al Hilal, led by Jorge Jesus and Rúben Neves.
Immediately following the match, footage emerged showing Abderrazak Hamdallah, a player for Al Ittihad, being whipped by a fan in the aftermath of the loss.
In response to the disturbing incident, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) issued a statement expressing their "shock" and strong condemnation of the fan's behavior. The federation emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all football enthusiasts, noting that such disturbances among fans are exceedingly rare in Saudi football.
While the incident took place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, the SAFF asserted its responsibility to address the matter, indicating that it would conduct a thorough review of its spectator code of conduct. This review aims to implement updated rules and regulations that facilitate the swift and effective enforcement of appropriate sanctions against individuals who engage in misconduct at football events.
The SAFF's statement underscored the importance of preserving football as a family sport in Saudi Arabia and reiterated its dedication to preventing the recurrence of similar incidents in the future.
