SAFF Sets Aug. 30 Election Date in Riyadh

Aug 30, 2026

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SAFF Sets Aug. 30 Election Date in Riyadh

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) will hold its presidential and board of directors elections on Sunday, 30 August 2026, at 13:00 in Riyadh, during an extraordinary general assembly. The vote will select a president and full board for the sixth term, running from 2026 to 2030.

The election was scheduled following the resignation of Yasser Al-Misehal as SAFF president in the wake of Saudi Arabia's group-stage exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Five candidates remain in the race for the presidency after the close of nominations.

Nominations opened on 22 July 2026 and closed on 1 August 2026. The elections committee reviews candidate files and issues preliminary lists, with the review process running through around 7–8 August. A formal appeals and grievances period is set for mid-August, allowing objections to be received and settled before the final list is confirmed on 26 August 2026. The withdrawal deadline is 25 August, and approved candidates may campaign from 27 to 29 August, one day before the vote.

Eligibility and process

Presidential candidates must hold Saudi citizenship, be aged between 28 and 70, and have at least two years of administrative experience. Candidates must also meet English language requirements and pass an English language test to maintain their eligibility. The process is overseen by the SAFF Elections Committee and is subject to review and appeal before the Saudi Sports Arbitration Center within the specified window.

The outcome will shape the leadership of Saudi football for the next four years, a period of continued national interest in the sport and its development across the Kingdom.

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