The Saudi Pro League issued an important clarification statement addressing the issue of stadium readiness and availability, responding to questions circulating in the sports community regarding some clubs being forced to play their competitive matches away from their home grounds. The League emphasized in its statement its deep understanding of the technical and psychological dimensions associated with home advantage and the direct impact this has on team results and the overall fan experience.
Timeline for infrastructure development
In a move aimed at enhancing transparency, the league revealed the specific timeline for the completion and certification of the stadiums of four major clubs: Al-Hazm, Al-Kholoud, Damac, and Al-Taawoun . According to the plan developed in coordination with the relevant engineering and regulatory bodies, these facilities are scheduled to be fully ready to host matches by February 2026. This announcement brings good news to the fans of these clubs, signaling the imminent return of their teams to play on their home grounds, which will boost their competitive chances and facilitate fan attendance.
The context of the transformation in the Saudi League
These measures come at a time when the Saudi Professional League is undergoing a historic transformation and a qualitative leap on all levels, having become the focus of global attention after attracting a host of international football stars. This major transformation has imposed strict and unprecedented standards regarding infrastructure, as it is no longer limited to the existence of a playing field alone, but has extended to include precise requirements for crowd management, international television production standards to ensure broadcast quality for international channels, and public safety requirements.
The league explained that the decision to play at alternative stadiums was not arbitrary, but rather a response to these operational and organizational challenges, ensuring the league reflects its new status as one of the world's most-watched leagues. It emphasized that these measures primarily serve the best interests of the competition, protect the rights of sponsors and broadcast partners, and guarantee the safety of the large crowds.
Successful models and business balance
The league cited the successful experience of Al-Fayha Club this season, whose stadium was officially approved after fulfilling all the required conditions, confirming the seriousness of the ongoing work. In a related matter, the league emphasized its commitment to commercial flexibility, noting that clubs still have the option to request the relocation of their major matches to stadiums with higher capacity, in accordance with each club's investment vision and in a way that achieves better financial returns, while taking into account the availability of facilities and the competition schedule.
The association concluded by affirming that these tireless efforts fall within a comprehensive national strategy to raise the quality of life and improve sports infrastructure, keeping pace with the rapid development witnessed by the Kingdom in the sports sector, and contributing to providing an integrated football product that satisfies the passion of Saudi and international fans.
