In a surprising decision that shook Saudi football circles, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation's Appeals Committee announced its decision to overturn the result of the match between Al-Wahda and Al-Ula clubs in the 2025-2026 Saudi Professional League (Yellow Division). According to the decision, Al-Ula was declared the loser with a score of 3-0 in favor of Al-Wahda, thus overturning the original result which saw Al-Ula win 3-0.
Details of the decision and its legal justifications
This decisive decision came after Al-Wahda Club filed a formal protest following the match held on January 22, 2026, challenging the eligibility of Al-Ula Club player, Matija Nastasic. After reviewing the case, the Appeals Committee accepted Al-Wahda's appeal, confirming a violation of the regulations. Consequently, the decision not only overturned the match result but also included additional penalties; Al-Ula Club was fined 37,500 Saudi Riyals, and the team manager, Mohammed Abdullah Sanitan Al-Mutairi, was suspended from all official matches for two months.
General context and importance of the Yellow League
The Yellow First Division League is the main gateway to promotion to the Saudi Professional League, making it a competition of paramount importance to participating clubs. The competition is fierce and exciting until the final rounds, as teams strive to secure direct promotion or at least a place in the playoffs. Any administrative or legal decision, such as this one, could completely reshape the competitive landscape and directly impact the ambitions of clubs, their fans, and their investments for the season.
Direct impact on league standings
This decision had a seismic impact on the Yellow League standings. The three-point deduction for Al-Ula FC dropped them from second place, which would have guaranteed direct promotion, to fourth with 43 points. This decline puts them in a precarious position in the promotion race, as they now trail Al-Diriyah in third place by three points. Conversely, Al-Wahda FC benefited from the three points added to their tally, rising to 26 points. Although they remain in thirteenth place, these points could prove crucial in their fight to avoid relegation. This decision underscores the importance of strict adherence to administrative and legal regulations, and confirms that match results are not determined solely on the pitch, but also extend to the offices and legal committees that ensure the application of the principles of equal opportunity and fairness among all competing clubs.
