Saudi federation condemns offensive chants at Ruben Neves referencing Diogo Jota's death | OneFootball

According to L'Équipe, the Saudi football federation and the Saudi Pro League condemned unacceptable behaviour after chants from supporters targeted Al-Hilal’s Ruben Neves and referenced his late friend Diogo Jota. The bodies issued statements late on Sunday.

The chants were heard on Saturday during Al-Taawoun against Al-Hilal, which Neves’ side won 6-0.

While preparing to take a free-kick, the 29-year-old Portugal international responded by giving a thumbs-up and applauding, then pointed a finger to the sky. After the match he said he simply hoped those responsible would not go to pray after what they had done.

Neves was among Jota’s closest friends and helped carry his coffin at the funeral. Jota died in July 2025 at the age of 28.

In their joint message, the federation and league said such actions ran against the values and principles of Saudi football.

Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo, a Portugal team-mate of Neves, said the supporters involved should never be allowed back into stadiums.

Al-Hilal described the chants as collectively offensive, rejected personal attacks on players and their families, and said it has filed a complaint with the federation to protect the club and its players’ rights.

Source: L'Équipe

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