Cristiano Ronaldo faces suspension in Saudi Arabia over obscene gesture
Responding to provocations from opposing fans chanting Lionel Messi’s name in the stands, Cristiano Ronaldo faces a potentially severe penalty in Saudi Arabia, where the rules are known to be stricter. Since his arrival in the country in winter 2023, CR7 has often been taunted by opposing fans singing praises to his rival, Lionel Messi, in an attempt to unsettle him.
On each occasion, Cristiano Ronaldo reacts sometimes provocatively, occasionally bordering on what is allowed in public.
During the match against Al-Shabab last Sunday, Cristiano Ronaldo responded with an obscene gesture to opposing fans chanting «Messi, Messi» in the stands after converting a penalty (3-2 victory).
This reaction could cost him dearly. According to Marca, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation is calling for a two-match suspension for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner due to this inappropriate gesture in public.
If the Saudi Pro League enforces the sanction requested by the SAFF, Cristiano Ronaldo will miss the next two Al-Nassr league matches against Al-Hazm (February 29) and Al-Raed (March 7).
The precise consequences of this gesture for CR7 should be clarified in the coming days
