The Saudi FA have issued a statement on the despicable chants about the late Diogo Jota following Cristiano Ronaldo's plea for lifetime bans to those involved.
Chants referencing the death of Jota were directed at Ruben Neves, who was one of Jota's closest friends, during Al Hilal's Saudi Pro League clash with Al Taawoun, where a section of home supporters chanted Jota's name in an attempt to provoke the midfielder.
Ronaldo demanded lifetime stadium bans for those responsible hours after the event, and the Saudi FA have subsequently issued a statement condemning the chants.
Saudi FA condemn chants
Neves was visibly affected by the chants directed at the midfielder during the game against Al Taawoun, with the midfielder pointing towards the sky before gesturing back at the stands, followed by saying “I just hope they don't go to pray later” after the game.
Ronaldo took to Instagram after the game and commented “The league must take action and punish this kind of fan behaviour.
“This is no longer football, and there have to be limits. People who behave like this should never be allowed to enter a stadium again.”
The Saudi FA followed up the condemnation from players by announcing that a formal investigation would take way, with the Saudi Football Federation and Saudi Pro League both issuing their joint condemnation.
The organisations denounced the chants as “unacceptable practices” that are contrary to the values and principles of the game.
Possible sanctions against both Al Taawoun and the individuals responsible are now expected following the conclusion of the investigation, with some – including Ronaldo – calling for punishments including lifetime stadium bans.
FGG Says: No place in football
There is simply no place in football for such disgusting chants, and there should certainly be harsh punishments awarded to those responsible.