Saudi Arabia’s Super Cup Dilemma: Balancing star Power and Fan Engagement
Saudi Arabia faces a crucial decision regarding the future of the Italian Super Cup. By the end of March,they must determine whether to host the prestigious tournament again in 2026,according to a report by The Republic. This decision hinges on the participation of Italy’s top clubs: Juventus, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.
The Saudis have a contractual right to host two of the next four editions.Thier enthusiasm for the event stems from the guaranteed presence of Italy’s most accomplished teams, which draw significant local interest. Past editions in Riyadh have demonstrated this trend, with matches featuring less popular teams struggling to fill stadiums. For instance, the Napoli-Fiorentina semi-final last year saw a stadium only 20% occupied, while the Inter-Atalanta clash this year left at least 10,000 seats empty in the 25,000-capacity Al-Awwal Park stadium.
While the Saudis are pleased with the overall impact of hosting the Super Cup, especially the high-profile clashes like the Milan-Juventus semi-final and the upcoming derby, they are concerned about the lack of Italian fan presence. Travel packages offered by Visit Arabia in collaboration with Serie A have proven prohibitively expensive for many Italian supporters.
If the Saudis decide to proceed with hosting the 2026 and 2027 editions, a likely scenario involves alternating the venue between Riyadh and Jeddah, which previously hosted the event in 2019. This strategic move could potentially lead to an extension of their agreement with serie A.
Star Power in the Desert: Should Saudi Arabia Continue Hosting the Italian Super Cup?
Saudi Arabia’s foray into hosting the Italian Super Cup has been met wiht mixed results. While glistening stadiums and clashes between titans like Juventus and AC Milan have generated excitement, the lack of traveling Italian fans has left a palpable void.
Joining us today to discuss this complex dilemma is former Italian national team midfielder and esteemed football analyst, Alessandro Del Piero. Alessandro, thank you for joining us.
Del Piero: It’s a pleasure to be here.
Moderator: Alessandro, Saudi Arabia has secured the rights to host two of the next four Super Cups. Given the recent attendance figures, do you think they should exercise this option?
Del Piero: It’s a tough call.On one hand, the Saudis have invested heavily in upgrading facilities and bringing world-class football to their fans. Matches like the Milan derby are spectacles that generate tremendous buzz. On the other hand, empty seats in a 25,000-capacity stadium speak volumes. The passion of Italian tifosi is an integral part of the Super Cup experience, and their absence is keenly felt.
Moderator: The high cost of travel packages has been cited as a major deterrent for Italian fans. Some argue that Saudi Arabia should shoulder a greater portion of these costs to encourage wider fan participation. What are your thoughts on this?
Del Piero: I beleive a compromise is necessary. Saudi Arabia has a vested interest in building a dedicated fan base for Italian football, and subsidized packages coudl be a wise investment. It’s a unique chance to showcase their hospitality and cultivate long-term engagement.
Moderator: The possibility of alternating the venue between Riyadh and Jeddah has emerged as a potential solution. Do you think this would help address the attendance issue?
Del Piero: It could certainly broaden the appeal. Jeddah has a distinct coastal charm and a thriving football culture.
offering more diverse experiences might entice more Italian fans to make the journey.
Moderator: Ultimately, the decision rests with the Saudis. They must weigh the economic benefits against the desire for authentic fan experiences. Do you have any final thoughts for our readers?
del Piero: My hope is that both sides find a solution that celebrates the spirit of the Italian Super Cup.Football is a global language, and bridging cultural divides through sport should always be a priority.
Let’s hear from you, our esteemed viewers. Should Saudi Arabia continue hosting the Italian super cup? Do you think subsidized travel packages are a viable solution? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s continue this crucial conversation.
