Saudi Pro League

Saudi Pro League Overview

The Saudi Pro League, also known as Roshn Saudi League (RSL), is the top-tier football division in Saudi Arabia. In recent years, the league has experienced a significant transformation, attracting global attention with its ambitious plans to become a major player in world football.

Brief History

Established in 1976, the Roshn Saudi League (RSL) has been a cornerstone of Saudi Arabian sports. While it has traditionally been a domestic-focused league, the recent influx of global superstars has propelled it onto the international stage.

League Structure

The Saudi Pro League features 18 teams competing in a double round-robin format, where each team plays the others twice, once at home and once away. The season runs from August to May. The bottom two teams are relegated to the Saudi First Division League, while the 16th-placed team enters a playoff with the third-placed team from the First Division¹.

Governing Body

The league is governed by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) under the jurisdiction of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)¹.

Dominant Clubs

The Saudi Pro League is home to several dominant clubs, often referred to as the “Big 4”:

• Al-Hilal: The most successful club with 19 titles¹.
• Al-Ittihad: A historic club with 9 titles¹.
• Al-Nassr: Known for their passionate fanbase and 9 titles¹.
• Al-Shabab: Another strong contender with 6 titles¹.

Biggest Derbies

• Riyadh Derby: Al-Hilal vs. Al-Nassr, the most high-profile match in Saudi football.
• Jeddah Derby: Al-Ittihad vs. Al-Ahli, a fierce local rivalry.
• Central Derby: Al-Hilal vs. Al-Shabab, a clash of titans in Riyadh.

Key Statistics

• Most Successful Club: Al-Hilal with 19 titles¹.
• Most Appearances: Mohamed Al-Deayea with 406 matches¹.
• Top Goal scorer: Majed Abdullah with 189 goals¹.