The golden gleam of the FIFA Club World Cup trophy illuminated Riyadh this week, as Al Hilal, the reigning Saudi Pro League champions, played host to the prestigious prize during its global tour.
The event, a testament to Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning football prominence, drew a rapturous reception from passionate fans, underscoring the nation’s growing enthusiasm for the beautiful game.
The Kingdom Arena, Al Hilal’s home ground, served as the primary stage for the trophy’s unveiling, where Chief Executive Esteve Calzada and FIFA Chief Business Officer Romy Gai officially presented the coveted prize.
The event was steeped in Saudi tradition, with guests enjoying traditional coffee and dates, creating an authentic cultural experience.
However, it was the “Blue Power,” Al Hilal’s fervent supporters, who truly stole the show. Clad in their signature blue, hundreds of fans flocked to the arena, their chants and cheers echoing through the venue.
Fresh off a resounding 5-1 league victory, the atmosphere was electric, with fans eager to catch a glimpse of the trophy their team will be competing for in the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in the United States.
“The enthusiasm was palpable,” said a FIFA spokesperson. “It’s clear that football in Saudi Arabia is reaching new heights.”
In total, over 700 supporters attended the event. The excitement surrounding Al Hilal’s upcoming participation in the tournament was evident, solidifying the club’s status as a symbol of Saudi football’s ascendance.
Later, the trophy was showcased to Al Hilal’s key figures, including head coach Jorge Jesus and stars Rúben Neves and Salem Aldawsari.
Neves, visibly moved, described the trophy as “the most beautiful trophy I’ve ever seen,” highlighting its significance and the ambition to compete for it.
“It’s beautiful,” Neves said. “I think it’s the most beautiful trophy I’ve ever seen. With all the names of the clubs, it’s very good – there is a lot of meaning in the trophy. I hope we can fight for it, as well.”
The tour also included a visit to the iconic Kingdom Centre, further embedding the event within the heart of Riyadh’s vibrant cityscape.
Saudi social media influencers Abdulrahman Al Sadhan, Faisal Alsalmi, and Abdullah Alzahrani also joined the event, sharing the experience with their extensive online followings.
Al Hilal’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, secured by their 2021 AFC Champions League victory, is a source of immense pride for the nation. The team, boasting stars like Joao Cancelo and Aleksandar Mitrovic, is set to face formidable opponents, including Real Madrid CF, FC Salzburg, and CF Pachuca, in the group stage.
Captain Salem Aldawsari, renowned for his decisive goal against Argentina in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, expressed his anticipation for the tournament.
“It’s a global tournament, so it’s definitely a source of pride for Al Hilal to be there, representing Saudi Arabia,” Aldawsari stated. “Winning is in the DNA of Al Hilal – we’re constantly striving to do better.”
The tournament, set to take place in the United States, will see Al Hilal begin their campaign against Real Madrid CF in Miami on June 18th, followed by clashes with FC Salzburg in Washington, D.C. on June 22nd, and CF Pachuca in Nashville on June 26th.
