Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Fahad bin Nafel, president of Al Hilal Football Club, announced on Tuesday he will not seek a new term, bringing an end to a record-setting six-year tenure that cemented his legacy as the most successful president in the club’s history.

In a statement posted on his official X account, Bin Nafel reflected on his time at the helm, writing: “Every journey has a final station... I hand over the leadership of this great club just as it was handed to me or even better, God willing.”

Bin Nafel expressed full support for the incoming president and emphasized his decision stems from a desire to open the door for new leadership to continue Al Hilal’s progress.

“I announce today my absolute support for the next candidate for the presidency of Al Hilal,” he said.

Appointed in June 2019, Bin Nafel led Al Hilal through a golden era, securing 12 major trophies during his 2,233 days in charge, including four Saudi Pro League titles (2020, 2021, 2022, 2024), two AFC Champions League titles (2019, 2021), three King’s Cups (2020, 2023, 2024), and three Saudi Super Cups (2021, 2023, 2024).

Under his leadership, the club also reached new heights on the global stage, making four appearances in the FIFA Club World Cup. Notably, in the 2022 edition hosted in Morocco, Al Hilal finished runners-up after a thrilling 5–3 final against Real Madrid.

In the latest 2025 expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, Al Hilal made headlines by reaching the quarterfinals.

The team drew with both Real Madrid and Red Bull Salzburg in the group stage before defeating Pachuca to advance.

In the Round of 16, they shocked global powerhouse Manchester City with a historic win before narrowly exiting the competition against Brazil’s Fluminense.

Bin Nafel closed his message by extending gratitude to Saudi Arabia’s leadership. “My sincere thanks and appreciation go to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their unprecedented support for sports and youth,” he wrote. “With their backing, we dared to dream big and those dreams came true.”

Fahad bin Nafel’s departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Al Hilal’s storied history, one that saw the club become a symbol of Saudi football’s rise on the regional and international stage.