Riyadh, July 15, 2026, SPA -- Spain advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after defeating France 2-0 in semifinal match at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, United States. Spain controlled the match and opened the scoring in the 22nd minute through Mikel Oyarzabal from the penalty spot after Lamine Yamal was fouled inside the penalty area. Pedro Porro doubled the lead in the 58th minute. France pushed for a comeback in the second half but was denied by Spain's organized defense and a series of crucial saves from goalkeeper Unai Simón, who preserved his clean sheet to secure Spain's place in the final. With the victory, Spain will face the winner of the England-Argentina semifinal in the World Cup final, while France will compete in the third-place playoff.

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Najran, July 14, 2026, SPA -- Sports and fitness tracks in Najran have witnessed increasing turnout from residents and visitors of all ages, becoming a prominent outlet and a favorite destination during the summer holiday. They have helped enhance quality of life, promote a culture of walking, improve mood, and provide numerous health benefits. The Najran Municipality has developed 44 sports tracks in parks and public gardens across Najran city and its governorates. The facilities are equipped with fitness equipment, cycling lanes, modern lighting, seating areas, landscaping, and public amenities as part of the municipality's efforts to improve the urban landscape and promote healthy lifestyles in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The 2,660-metre-long and 10-metre-wide walking track at King Fahd Park is among the most ......read more

Bucaramanga, July 12, 2026, SPA -- Saudi Arabia has been awarded the right to host the 57th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO 2027), which is scheduled to take place next year. The IPhO International Board approved the Kingdom's bid during the 56th edition, currently underway in Bucaramanga, Colombia, which brings together outstanding secondary school students from around the world. The hosting win builds on Saudi Arabia's record of hosting major international science Olympiads, following its successful organization of the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) in Riyadh in July 2024, which brought together 333 students from 90 countries, and the 25th Asian Physics Olympiad (APhO) in Dhahran in May 2025, which attracted 240 students representing 30 Asian countries. The Kingdom is also preparing to host the third ......read more

Paris, July 13, 2026, SPA -- Head of Global Esports Ecosystem at Moonton Games Ray Ng said the company's participation in the 2026 Esports World Cup, currently taking place in Paris, marks its third consecutive year as a tournament partner, noting that the collaboration has supported the company's global expansion strategy and strengthened the international presence of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. Speaking to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), he said Moonton is participating this year with the Mid-Season Cup and the Women's Invitational tournament. He added that the company has shifted from a direct invitation system to a competitive structure in which teams qualify through a professional pathway that develops the competitive ecosystem. He noted that the partnership between Moonton Games and the tournament has been mutually ......read more

Paris, July 10, 2026, SPA -- The Esports World Cup (EWC) 2026 has gotten underway in the French capital, kicking off seven weeks of competition that bring together leading esports clubs and players from around the world at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles through August 23. EWC 2026 features 25 tournaments across 24 of the world’s most prominent games, alongside a packed lineup of fan events, entertainment, and interactive experiences. The event offers a blend of competition and cutting-edge entertainment concepts, attracting gaming enthusiasts from around the world. More than 2,000 players representing over 200 clubs from 100 countries are competing for a record-breaking $75 million prize pool, underscoring the tournament’s expanding international reach and its status as the world’s largest annual esports ......read more

Riyadh, July 07, 2026, SPA -- Spain’s national team achieved a historic milestone at the FIFA World Cup 2026, becoming the first team in tournament history to keep six consecutive clean sheets after defeating Portugal 1-0 in the Round of 16. The remarkable defensive record highlights Spain’s strength throughout the competition. The team began its campaign with a goalless draw against Cape Verde, before defeating Saudi Arabia and then overcoming Uruguay in the final match of the group stage. Spain continued its defensive dominance in the knockout rounds, beating Austria 3-0 in the Round of 32 before edging past Portugal 1-0 in the Round of 16, setting a new World Cup record for consecutive clean sheets. Spain will face the winner of the United States and Belgium clash in the quarter-finals, aiming to maintain its ......read more

Riyadh, July 5, 2026, SPA -- The Saudi national deaf futsal team qualified for Winter Deaflympics 2027 in Austria, after finishing second at the first Asian Deaf Futsal Championship, held in the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek, from June 26 to July 5. The qualification came after an impressive tournament run in which the Saudi team remained unbeaten. It opened its campaign with an 8-4 win over Bahrain and then drew 5-5 with Kazakhstan before beating Kyrgyzstan 5-3, Oman 5-4, and Uzbekistan 9-5 in three straight victories.

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Riyadh, July 06, 2026, SPA -- Norway striker Erling Haaland continued his outstanding form at the FIFA World Cup 2026, leading his national team to the quarter-finals after a 2–1 victory over Brazil in their Round of 16 clash. Haaland scored both Norway goals in the 79th and 90th minutes, securing his team’s place in the last eight, where they will face the winner of England vs Mexico. The Norwegian forward increased his tournament tally to seven goals, sharing the top scorer position with Argentina’s Lionel Messi and France’s Kylian Mbappé. According to statistics, this marks the first time since the 1958 World Cup that three players have scored more than five goals in a single edition, and the first time in tournament history that three players have reached seven goals or more in the same tournament

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Riyadh, July 04, 2026, SPA -- The Entertainment Activities and Supporting Activities Regulation, approved by the Cabinet on June 16, 2026, represents a pivotal regulatory step in developing the Kingdom's entertainment sector, aiming to organize, develop, and raise the quality of entertainment and supporting activities, enhance sector growth and sustainability, attract investment, and improve service quality in line with objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The regulation establishes an integrated regulatory framework for entertainment and supporting activities, organizing licensing procedures and defining standards, requirements, and controls, contributing to improved operational efficiency, enhanced compliance, and higher quality entertainment services and experiences. Furthermore, it strengthens transparency and clarity of roles, ......read more

  Riyadh, July 04, 2026, SPA -- Egypt advanced to the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating Australia 4–2 in a penalty shootout, following a 1–1 draw after regulation and extra time in their Round of 32 match on Friday. Egypt took the lead in the 13th minute through Emam Ashour before Australia equalized in the 55th minute when Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned the ball into his own net. The score remained level through the remainder of regulation and extra time, sending the match to penalties, where Egypt prevailed 4–2. With the victory, Egypt progressed to the Round of 16, where it will face the winner of the match between Argentina and Cabo Verde as it aims to continue its impressive run in the tournament.  

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Riyadh, July 1, 2026, SPA -- Norway secured a place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Côte d'Ivoire 2-1 in their Round of 32 match yesterday. With the win, Norway continues its campaign in the tournament and sets up a Round of 16 clash with Brazil, which advanced after defeating Japan.

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AlUla, June 26, 2026, SPA -- Saudi composer and pianist Abeer Balubaid won the AlUla Music Competition with her composition Passage of Light (Masar Al-Nour), a work inspired by AlUla's natural landscapes, civilizational heritage, and cultural identity. AlUla on Wednesday evening concluded the competition, launched by Arts AlUla, the cultural and artistic arm of the Royal Commission for AlUla. The initiative sought to support Saudi musical composition and inspire original works rooted in the region's heritage, culture, and striking landscapes. The competing pieces were assessed by a specialized jury, with the winning composition, Passage of Light, becoming part of the Musical Road project at AlUla's entrance, where visitors are welcomed by a musical piece that interacts with passing vehicles. The competition ......read more

Jeddah, June 25, 2026, SPA -- Formula E and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) have announced the first calendar for the 2026/2027 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship following its approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council. Formula E will head to the Middle East on December 18-19, 2026, for an unprecedented milestone in the 2026/2027 season. For the first time, the global ABB FIA Formula E World Championship calendar will begin at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit with rounds one and two, featuring distinctive night races in a country that has developed a strong relationship with the championship. Hosting the season opener at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit reflects the Kingdom's growing role in shaping the future of electric motorsport. With its unique location on the Red Sea coast, high-speed corners, and ......read more

  Riyadh, June 26, 2026, SPA -- The Film Commission is participating in the 12th edition of the Saudi Film Festival, organized by the Cinema Association in partnership with the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) and supported by the Film Commission, from June 26 to July 2, 2026. The participation reflects the commission's continued efforts to support the local film industry, empower national talent, and advance the Kingdom's cinematic scene. The commission is supporting and sponsoring the festival while also hosting an informational pavilion showcasing its key initiatives and programs. It will present several commission-supported films competing in the festival to empower Saudi talent and expand opportunities for the production and exhibition of Saudi films. The festival's program features more than ......read more

Houston, June 24, 2026, SPA -- Portugal defeated Uzbekistan 5-0 on Tuesday at Houston Stadium in the second round of Group K matches at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The win moved Portugal to four points and boosted its chances of reaching the Round of 32, while Uzbekistan remained without a point after suffering its second defeat of the tournament.

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Yanbu, June 19, 2026, SPA -- Yanbu Industrial City is experiencing a vibrant fan atmosphere during the FIFA World Cup 2026, transforming into a destination for football enthusiasts from across the community and visitors alike to enjoy the tournament through an integrated entertainment and sports experience. The accompanying events have attracted large crowds, supported by comprehensive facilities provided by the organizers, including giant screens and dedicated fan zones, creating a viewing experience that mirrors the excitement surrounding the world's premier football tournament. A variety of entertainment programs, live performances, and interactive activities have enriched the visitor experience. Food trucks and cafés have also contributed to the lively atmosphere at event venues, making Yanbu Industrial City a popular ......read more

Houston, June 17, 2026, SPA -- Portugal and the Democratic Republic of the Congo played to a 1-1 draw today at Houston Stadium in the opening round of Group K at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. João Neves gave Portugal an early lead in the sixth minute. Yoane Wissa equalized for the Congolese side in first-half stoppage time (45+5). The result earned both teams one point in their opening Group K match. Uzbekistan and Colombia will meet later on Thursday in the other group fixture.

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Vancouver, June 19, 2026, SPA -- Canada defeated Qatar 6-0 today at BC Place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the result, Canada topped Group B with four points, ahead of Switzerland on goal difference after its earlier 4-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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Riyadh, June 17, 2026, SPA -- The King Salman Center for Disability Research (KSCDR) launched the “AI Hackathon for People with Disabilities” as part of the activities of the 7th International Conference on Disability and Rehabilitation The initiative coincides with the "Year of Artificial Intelligence 2026." It reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to harnessing advanced technologies and modern innovations to serve people, empower persons with disabilities, and enhance their quality of life. The hackathon's organization reflects KSCDR’s leading role in supporting scientific research, innovation, and the development of sustainable solutions in the field of disability. It provides a platform that brings together experts, researchers, innovators, developers, and entrepreneurs from inside and outside ......read more

Jeddah, June 15, 2026, SPA -- Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and President of the Saudi Boxing Federation Turki Alalshikh has announced that tickets are now on sale for the highly anticipated heavyweight bout, "The Comeback," featuring British boxing star Anthony Joshua and Albanian contender Kristian Prenga. The event is scheduled to take place on July 25, 2026, at the Jeddah Superdome as part of the Jeddah Calendar, in collaboration with Riyadh Season. Tickets are available through the Webook app. Since its announcement, the fight has attracted significant media attention and fan interest, establishing itself as one of the most anticipated heavyweight matchups of the year. The event will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. The fight's first press conference was held earlier this month in ......read more

Jeddah, June 16, 2026, SPA -- Amid an enthusiastic atmosphere that reflected fans’ passion and support for the Green Falcons at the start of their World Cup campaign, large numbers of Saudi fans flocked yesterday to Abadi Al Johar Arena in Jeddah to watch the Saudi national team’s first match at the FIFA World Cup 2026 against Uruguay. The venue area featured several accompanying activities, including folk performances, and interactive zones that attracted visitors and families, in a scene that reflected the level of support and anticipation for the national team among its fans.

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A world-class tennis centre in Qiddiya City will provide for elite international competition, Saudi Arabian player development and community participation, establishing the Kingdom as a global sports and tennis destination and reflecting the city's philosophy of the 'Power of Play'.   Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – June 15, 2026: Qiddiya Investment Company has announced the National Tennis Centre – a world-class sports and entertainment landmark that will position Saudi Arabia as a future hub for international tennis, elite development, local grass roots participation and year-round community play. Located in Qiddiya City – Saudi Arabia's capital of entertainment, sport, and culture – the National Tennis Centre will be the region's largest tennis centre, built to ATP, WTA and ITF ......read more

Riyadh, June 9, 2026, SPA -- The Saudi archery team won two silver medals and one bronze and secured several top finishes at the 2026 International Conquest Cup, held in Istanbul, Türkiye. The results highlight Saudi Arabia’s growing presence in international archery and the sport’s continued growth across the Kingdom. The first silver medal came in the women’s compound team event, won by Raghad Kaabi, Sara Aljanabi, and Haifa Alkhenizan. The men’s compound team of Belal Alawadi, Abdulaziz Alrodhan, and Abdullah Almanhale claimed the second silver medal. In the mixed compound team event, Belal Alawadi and Raghad Kaabi earned the bronze medal. Saudi archers also posted strong results in recurve bow competitions. Lenah Almunajem finished fourth in the women’s individual event, while the men’s team of ......read more

Austin, June 05, 2026, SPA -- The Saudi national football team concluded its preparations on Thursday evening for a friendly match against Puerto Rico on Friday at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, marking the fourth and final phase of its training camp program for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

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Paris, June 04, 2026, SPA -- French club RC Lens have activated the purchase option for the permanent transfer of Saudi international Saud Abdulhamid, keeping him at the club until 2029 following an impressive loan spell from Italian side AS Roma. In a statement published on its website, Lens said the move followed a strong season in which Abdulhamid helped the club win the Coupe de France and qualify for next season's UEFA Champions League. The club noted that he had been a key figure in the squad throughout the campaign. Abdulhamid joined Lens in July 2025, bringing experience from the Saudi Pro League and his professional stint with AS Roma before establishing himself as a regular starter for the French side. He also became the first Saudi player to feature in the French Ligue 1 and remains the only Saudi professional ......read more

Riyadh, June 5, 2026, SPA -- ESL FACEIT Group (EFG), one of the world's leading entertainment and esports companies, continues to expand its international footprint while strengthening efforts to position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for esports. Since its acquisition by Savvy Games Group in 2022, EFG has aligned its global expertise with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, contributing to the growth of the sector locally and internationally. Over two decades, EFG has built an integrated ecosystem covering all stages of competition, from community tournaments through the FACEIT platform to major global events, most notably the Intel Extreme Masters series. In 2025, EFG's events generated strong engagement, with audiences watching more than 266 million hours of content across ......read more

Riyadh, May 21, 2026, SPA -- The Saudi informatics team won a bronze medal at the Asia-Pacific Informatics Olympiad 2026, which was held remotely in Taiwan during May. The competition featured 187 students from 32 countries This marks the Kingdom's sixth participation in APIO since its first entry in 2021. Founded in 2007 in Australia, the Olympiad is a regional programming and algorithm competition for high school students across the Asia-Pacific and Western Pacific regions. The competition is typically conducted online over five hours, during which participants solve three algorithmic programming problems.

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Jeddah, May 20, 2026, SPA -- Secretary General of the Gulf Cup Football Federation Jassim Sultan Al Rumaihi stated that the draw for the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup “Khaleeji 27,” held on Monday, points to strong competition among the eight participating teams, noting that Gulf fans can look forward to highly competitive matches in the race for the title. His remarks came following the draw ceremony held in Historic Jeddah, attended by a number of Gulf football association officials and sports figures. Al Rumaihi expressed confidence that the new edition, which Jeddah will host for the first time, will enjoy strong technical and fan momentum, contributing to the development of Gulf national teams and the showcasing of football talent. He added that the Kingdom’s hosting of the tournament for the fifth time reflects its ......read more

Riyadh, May 14, 2026, SPA -- The organizers of the FIA Extreme H race, the world’s first hydrogen-powered motorsport competition, announced the return of the second edition of the World Cup to Qiddiya City from October 29 to 31, 2026. The hosting of the event, which aligns with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ambitions in motorsport, innovation, and sustainability, underscores the key role played by Qiddiya City in these fields. It also reflects its shared commitment with Extreme H to redefining the future of entertainment and sports with advanced technologies, exceptional experiences, and the promotion of sustainability principles. Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company Abdullah Aldawood said: “The return of the FIA Extreme H World Cup to Qiddiya City for its second edition reflects the city’s growing ......read more

Cannes, May 13, 2026, SPA -- The Film Commission announced its participation in the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival through a comprehensive program that reflects the rapid development of the Saudi film industry. The participation further enhances Saudi Arabia’s growing presence at leading international cinematic platforms and reinforces its position as a global destination for filmmaking. The commission is participating in the festival through the Saudi pavilion, which hosts several government entities, private sector organizations, and non-profit institutions. This participation comes as part of the festival's 2026 edition, taking place from May 12 to 23, and includes an official delegation from the commission as well as the participation of Saudi filmmakers in a series of specialized panel discussions, ......read more

Riyadh, May 14, 2026, SPA -- The Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation (AGCFF), in cooperation with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) and the Local Organizing Committee of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027, has announced the launch of the official identity of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup “Khaleeji 27,” as part of ongoing preparations for Jeddah hosting the tournament from September 23 to October 6, 2026. The Khaleeji 27 will, for the first time, host Gulf Cup competitions in Jeddah, marking a new chapter in the championship’s historic journey. The new identity carries a character inspired by the spirit of the Gulf and the details of Jeddah, with the logo design drawing inspiration from the historic Rawashin for which Old Jeddah is renowned, shaping the image of the championship trophy. This step reflects the ......read more

Riyadh, May 10, 2026, SPA -- Saudi Arabia secured a seat on the board of directors of the Asian Kickboxing Confederation (WAKO Asia) after President of the Saudi Kickboxing Federation Ahmed AlTowayan was elected for a four-year term. The elections took place during the confederation’s General Assembly meeting, held virtually under the chairmanship of WAKO Asia President Nasser Nassiri and attended by representatives of Asian national federations. The milestone reflects the advanced standing Saudi sports have attained at continental and international levels, as well as growing confidence in national talents capable of contributing to the development of combat sports in Asia. AlTowayan expressed pride in Saudi Arabia securing the seat, saying it strengthens the Kingdom’s distinguished presence in kickboxing at the ......read more

Jeddah, May 8, 2026, SPA -- Sports fans will turn their attention tomorrow evening to King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah for the final of the 2025–2026 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Cup, the 39th edition of the Kingdom’s most prestigious cup tournament, which will bring together Al-Hilal FC and Al-Kholood FC. Al-Hilal enters the final relying on its extensive experience in championship matches, in addition to a squad featuring international and highly experienced players at domestic and continental levels. The team aims to conclude its season by securing another title after progressing past several opponents on its way to the final, seeking to reclaim the trophy after last winning the competition in the 2023–2024 season. Meanwhile, Al-Kholood will play in the first major final in its history, ......read more

Jeddah, May 5, 2026, SPA -- The AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 will kick off today at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, and run from May 5 to 22. The Kingdom is participating as the host nation, seeded in the first pot, alongside 15 other national teams. CEO of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Local Organizing Committee Mai Alhelabi stated that the tournament represents a leading model in sports event organization. She added that the implementation of the “single-site” system has enhanced work teams' readiness and achieved the highest levels of coordination and efficiency in managing matches and related services. She noted that the tournament will offer a rich and diverse experience that meets the aspirations of different segments of society through accompanying events and interactive ......read more

Jeddah, April 27, 2026, SPA -- The Local Organizing Committee for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 hosted a giant ball race community event along the Jeddah Corniche. More than 20 organizations, around 1,000 students, as well as community groups and families, took part in a 3,000-meter race. The interactive experience featured participants collaboratively pushing a giant ball along the track at the Jeddah Corniche. This event was part of the activities accompanying the 2026 AFC Champions League Elite finals. It aimed to enhance community engagement and create a vibrant experience, bringing together football enthusiasts in a fun and interactive atmosphere.

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Jeddah, April 14, 2026, SPA -- The General Directorate of Border Guard team secured second and third places in the Ocean Kayak Championship held in Jeddah, organized by the Saudi Canoe and Kayak Federation. The team won four medals, including silver and bronze in the long-distance races, silver in the relay, and bronze in the short-distance races.

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Kayaking has emerged as a premier attraction at Al-Hareed Festival in the Farasan Islands, offering visitors a unique blend of adventure and nature. The activity is centered at Mangrove Beach, a revitalized site known for its tranquil waterways and dense mangrove and tamarisk forests. These natural channels provide an ideal environment for exploration, taking paddlers deep into a captivating and serene marine landscape. The initiative to develop the site was driven by local investment aimed at transforming the beach into a safe, world-class tourist destination. Managed under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Canoe and Kayak Federation, the site ensures high safety standards, including the presence of certified lifeguards. The rowing route spans a 2,400-meter round trip, typically taking 45 to 60 minutes to ......read more

Jeddah, April 10, 2026, SPA -- Jeddah Governorate will host the Round of 16 and final stages of the AFC Champions League Elite 2025–2026 season from April 13 to 25 at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium and Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City Stadium. The tournament will feature West Region Round of 16 matches in Jeddah on April 13 and 14 in a single-leg format, after being shifted from the home-and-away system. Participating clubs include Al-Hilal, Al-Ahli, and Al-Ittihad, as well as Qatar’s Al-Sadd and Al-Duhail, the UAE’s Al-Wahda and Shabab Al-Ahli, and Iran’s Tractor. Asian football fans are also turning their attention to the tournament finals, which will be held in a centralized format from April 16 to 25 amid anticipation of an exceptional edition following the knockout-stage draw at the headquarters ......read more

Riyadh, April 9, 2026, SPA -- FIFA has selected the Saudi refereeing crew, comprising referee Khalid Al-Turais, assistant referee Mohammed Al-Abakry, and VAR official Abdullah Al-Shehri, to officiate matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 18. The selection follows the crew's distinguished performances in various regional, continental, and international refereeing assignments, most notably their successful participation in the FIFA U-20 World Cup held last year in Chile. Saudi Arabian Football Federation President Yasser Almisehal congratulated the selected officials, wishing them success at the World Cup and expressing hope that they would represent Saudi refereeing with distinction at this global football event. Almisehal affirmed that FIFA's selection of ......read more

Bupa Marathon promotes a healthy lifestyle culture and brings together diverse segments of society in an inclusive sporting event Bupa Arabia for Cooperative Insurance concluded the activities of the "Bupa Marathon 2026," which was recently held at Prince Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City (Misk City), under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Sports for All Federation, with the participation of more than 2,700 male and female participants of different ages and abilities, including people with disabilities, in a scene reflecting the growing culture of physical activity and the promotion of healthy lifestyles within the community. The event witnessed participation from individuals representing 51 nationalities, in addition to 593 participants from community sports groups, reflecting the expanding and ......read more