Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Ten Saudi football clubs have been barred from registering new players following the latest update to FIFA’s official registration ban list, which cites unresolved financial disputes and unpaid commitments to players, coaches, and agents.

According to FIFA’s published data, a total of 28 registration bans were imposed, ranging from temporary sanctions to open-ended restrictions.

Ohod Club topped the list with 17 separate bans, including several covering three consecutive registration periods and others listed as “until lifted.” The multiple sanctions make Ohod the most affected Saudi club under the current FIFA disciplinary measures.

Other clubs named include Al-Jandal and Al-Wehda, each facing two bans issued in October 2025, while Al-Shebab, Al-Riyadh, Al-Shoala, Najran, Al-Safa, Tuwaik, Al-Ain, and Al-Mahmal each received penalties ranging from three registration periods to indefinite suspensions.

FIFA regulations prohibit clubs from registering new players if they fail to settle outstanding payments within the designated timeframe. The ban is lifted only once the debt is cleared in full.

The November update shows an increase in the number of sanctioned clubs compared to previous months, reflecting rising financial pressures across Saudi Arabia’s First and Second Division sides.

However, the inclusion of higher-profile names such as Al-Wehda and Al-Shebab suggests the problem extends beyond financial capability to encompass administrative and strategic challenges.

On Sunday, the Ministry of Sports dissolved Al-Wehda’s board of directors due to organizational and financial irregularities, appointing Hatem Khaimias as interim president to replace Sultan Azhar.

The Makkah-based club currently sits near the bottom of the First Division table and faces the risk of relegation.