The Saudi Arabian Football Federation's Disciplinary and Ethics Committee announced in an official statement that it has issued a disciplinary sanction against Hattan Bahebri, the Al-Kholoud midfielder, following the events that occurred during his team's recent match against Al-Nassr in the Saudi Professional League. This decision comes as part of the committee's efforts to enforce adherence to sportsmanship and the competition's regulations.
Details of the penalty and legal violation
The committee based its strict decision on the match referee's report, which documented that player Hattan Bahebri committed "disgraceful conduct" towards an opposing player, warranting a direct red card. Consequently, the player was found to have violated Article (48-1-2) of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation's Disciplinary and Ethics Regulations. The decision stipulated the following penalties:
- Official suspension: Hattan Bahebri is suspended for two matches. This suspension includes the automatic penalty resulting from a direct red card. The decision applies to all official matches in which the player is eligible to participate with his team.
- Financial penalty: The player is obligated to pay a financial penalty of 20,000 Saudi Riyals to the Saudi Arabian Football Federation.
The committee also noted at the end of its statement that this decision is final and not subject to appeal, based on Article (144) of the regulations, which means the player’s certain absence from his team’s upcoming matches.
The impact of the absence on Al-Kholoud Club
The absence of Hattan Bahebri represents a significant blow to Al-Kholoud's coaching staff, given the former international player's extensive experience. Bahebri has previously played for major clubs such as Al-Hilal, Al-Shabab, and Al-Ittihad, in addition to representing the Saudi national team in international tournaments. This makes him a key player for the newly promoted Pro League team, who rely on him to control the midfield and orchestrate attacks. The coach will now have to find tactical alternatives to compensate for this absence in the next two matches to ensure the team's results are not affected amidst the fierce competition in the league.
The context of discipline in the Saudi Roshan League
This penalty comes as part of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation and its judicial committees' commitment to applying the highest standards of fairness and discipline in the Roshan League, which has become a focus of global attention thanks to attracting the brightest stars in football. The committee consistently emphasizes the necessity for players to adhere to proper sportsmanship, and any instances of misconduct or reprehensible behavior that could affect the league's reputation or the safety of competitors are dealt with firmly. This reflects the high level of professionalism with which the football system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is managed.
