The Dispute Resolution Committee obliges the unit to pay one million riyals to the gymnastics investor
The management of Al-Wahda Saudi Club, headed by Hatem Khimi, faces a new administrative and financial challenge, adding to the series of crises the Makkah-based club has been experiencing recently. The management received a final ruling from the Dispute Resolution Committee, through the Saudi Gymnastics Federation, obligating the club to pay over 1.1 million Saudi riyals in outstanding financial dues to the investor in the club's women's gymnastics program.
Successive financial rulings and pressure on the treasury
This decision is not an isolated incident, but rather the second in a series of sports court rulings issued against the club in a short period of time, less than a month. Just two weeks ago, Al-Wahda's management received a similar ruling obligating them to pay one million riyals to player Azzam Al-Bishi. This succession of binding financial decisions places the club's budget under immense pressure, especially given the financial constraints plaguing the "Knights of Mecca," which have impacted all of the club's various sports, not just football.
Administrative efforts towards amicable solutions
In an attempt to address the situation and alleviate the immediate financial burden, informed sources told Okaz newspaper that the current administration is moving to open direct communication channels with the investor in the women's gymnastics program. These moves aim to enter into serious negotiations to reach an amicable settlement, which may include reducing the outstanding amount or scheduling it into convenient installments, in line with the club's current cash flow and to avoid administrative penalties that could result from late payment.
General context and development of women's sports
This dispute comes at a time when Saudi sports are experiencing significant growth and expansion in investment across various disciplines, including women's sports, which have received substantial support in recent years. This ruling highlights the importance of activating the role of judicial committees and dispute resolution panels within various sports federations to guarantee the rights of both investors and players, thereby strengthening the sports investment environment and imposing greater contractual obligations on clubs.
The first team is preparing to face Al-Faisaly in the Yellow League
On the technical front, and away from the courtrooms and administrative offices, the first football team continues its intensive on-field preparations. Coach Rusmir is putting the final touches on the tactical plan he will use in the upcoming match against Al-Faisaly next Tuesday. The match will take place at 6:55 PM at King Abdulaziz Sports City Stadium in Mecca, as part of the 21st round of the Yelo First Division League.
Coach Rossmir is seeking through this match to separate the players from the administrative problems and focus on the green rectangle, aspiring to achieve victory and collect the three points to improve the team’s position in the standings and compete strongly in the league, at a time when the club needs every victory to raise the morale of the fans and management alike.
