Easing diplomatic tensions to see renewal of home-and-away football fixtures between Iran and Saudi Arabia

September 5, 2023

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has announced that the national football teams and clubs of Saudi Arabia and Iran have reached an agreement to play matches between them on a home-and-away basis for the first time since 2016.

Amid the easing of regional political tensions between the two nations that has this week seen the resumption of diplomatic relations this week, an agreement between the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) and Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), described as “groundbreaking” by the AFC, as been reached.

Prior to the agreement, all matches between the SAFF and FFIRI at national team and club levels were mandated to be played at neutral venues in accordance with the 2016 decision of the AFC Competitions Committee and AFC Executive Committee.

The decision was taken amid strained diplomatic relations between the two countries, with restrictions on Saudi Arabian nationals travelling to Iran.

The AFC has welcomed the “historic” move, which it feels reflects the commitment of the SAFF and FFIRI to foster closer ties between their respective footballing communities. The AFC hopes the home-and-away fixtures will create a more engaging and exciting experience for fans and players inside stadiums.

The announcement has been made ahead of the start of the AFC Champions League season later this month, and paves the way for Saudi Pro League clubs to travel to Iran for group-stage fixtures.

A statement from AFC explained “the AFC welcomes the historic move as it reflects the commitment of both the SAFF and FFIRI towards fostering closer ties between their respective footballing communities, allowing clubs to host matches on their home turf and visiting the respective away stadiums, creating a more engaging and exciting experience for the fans and players alike.

SAFF President Yasser, Al Misehal advised “we are very happy to announce this latest collaboration with FFIRI.

"This MoU not only fosters ties between our federations but will also carve a path for our youth, women, and the entire football community to succeed and enjoy the many benefits and opportunities available through the beautiful game.

"Saudi Arabia and Iran are two footballing nations and two powerhouses on the Asian continent."

Image: Football fans in Iran.

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