Title: Cristiano Ronaldo Disciplinary Action: One-Match Ban and Fine for Provoking Fans in Saudi Pro League
Portuguese football icon and Al-Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo was issued a one-match ban and fined for instigating fans during the Saudi Pro League clash against Al-Shabab on Sunday, February 5, 2023.
Background:
In the aftermath of a thrilling 3-2 win for Al Nassr over Al-Shabab, Ronaldo, aged 39, was involved in an incident that led to disciplinary action from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF).
Provocation Incident:
The controversy arose after footage emerged showing Ronaldo cupping his ear to listen to the chants from Al-Shabab supporters, directing a hand gesture towards his groin area in response while they chanted Lionel Messi’s name. This incident was considered to be provocative and in violation of SAFF regulations.
Disciplinary Actions:
On Wednesday, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation officially announced the disciplinary measures taken against Ronaldo, who was charged with violating Article 57-1 of the Discipline and Ethics Regulations. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner must now pay around $2,666 (10,000 riyals) to the SAFF and an additional $5,333 (20,000 riyals) to Al-Shabab as a complaint filing fee. The decision is final and cannot be appealed.
Impact on Ronaldo’s Career:
The disciplinary action comes after Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr following a controversial exit from Manchester United in late 2022. In the 16 league appearances he made for his new team last year, Ronaldo scored 14 goals and currently leads the league with 22 goals in 20 appearances during the ongoing campaign. As the most high-profile contact signing to the Saudi Pro League, the five-time Champions League winner continues to bring excitement and attention to the league.
Social Media Reactions:
Prominent Saudi journalist Waleed Al-Farraj expressed his thoughts on the matter before Ronaldo’s ban was announced, stating, “The [SAFF] disciplinary committee, you are facing the biggest test. We wait and see. Everything has its limits, no matter how big a star you are. This is how major leagues function.”
Match Summary:
Ronaldo started the scoring for Al-Nassr with a penalty kick before Yannick Carrasco equalized for Al-Shabab. The match continued to be a thriller, with Anderson Talisca scoring the go-ahead goal for Al-Nassr just one minute into the second half. However, Carlos Júnior equalized once again for Al-Shabab to make it 2-2. Ronaldo’s side had the final say as Talisca secured his brace deep into the match to secure a 3-2 victory.
Upcoming Absence:
Ronaldo will miss Al-Nassr’s keyboards against Al-Hazm on Thursday as a result of his suspension.
