A new direction within Al Ahly Club Company
In a surprising move that could reshape Saudi sports, reliable press sources have revealed that Al-Ahli Saudi Club is currently considering an exceptional proposal to abolish all other sports within the club and focus solely on football across all age groups. This proposal, reported by the newspaper Okaz, indicates a radical shift in the strategy of one of Saudi Arabia's oldest and most comprehensive clubs.
Studying the decision within the framework of the privatization project
The same sources indicated that this bold proposal has received widespread support from the majority of members within Al-Ahli Club. The move is slated to undergo a thorough study encompassing all financial, administrative, and technical aspects, paving the way for a final and official decision in the near future. This direction comes amidst the significant transformations taking place in Saudi clubs following the launch of the investment and privatization project for sports clubs, whereby the Public Investment Fund acquired a 75% stake in the club. This makes focusing on investment returns and football as a primary industry a strong and probable consideration.
A rich history: Al Ahly, the fortress of trophies
The significance and shock of this news for the sports community lies in the illustrious history of Al-Ahli Club, known as the "Fortress of Cups." Historically, Al-Ahli is the most decorated Saudi club across various sports, boasting, according to documented statistics, over 1,300 titles. Al-Ahli was more than just a football club; it was a comprehensive sports institution that supplied Saudi national teams with top stars in numerous sports, making this cancellation a significant turning point in its long and distinguished history.
Continued achievements in indoor sports
On a technical and modern level, Al-Ahli Club's sports teams continue to compete strongly for championships and are not merely participating for the sake of appearances. Last season, the club's first basketball team finished as runners-up in the league, behind Al-Ula, who won the title. In volleyball, Al-Ahli is considered one of the pillars of the sport in Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Gulf, boasting a rich history of local and regional achievements and championships that have established it as a leader in the sport. The same applies to the handball team, which has consistently been a formidable force in local and Asian competitions.
Expected impact on Saudi sports
A formal decision to cancel the various sports at Al-Ahli Club would have a profound impact on the local sports scene. Locally, Al-Ahli's absence would weaken the competitiveness of the basketball, volleyball, and handball leagues, where the club is a major force and a perennial contender for titles. This decision could also raise questions about the future of hundreds of athletes and technical staff working in these sectors. Regionally, the Gulf and Asia would lose one of the most prominent clubs competing in continental indoor sports championships. The Saudi sports community eagerly awaits the decisive decisions that will emerge from within the halls of this prestigious Jeddah club in the coming days.
