Saudi fans boo Real Madrid’s Toni Kroos at Spanish Super Cup final
The 34-year-old midfielder was targeted following his earlier criticism of players who chose to move from Europe to play in the Saudi Pro League
Updated 15 January 2024
Arab News
Riyadh: Real Madrid player Toni Kroos found himself at the center of a social media storm following his team’s victory in the Saudi Arabia-hosted Spanish Super Cup, where he faced jeers from the crowd.
For the second consecutive match, Saudi fans booed the German whenever he touched the ball during Real Madrid’s 4-1 win against Barcelona in the competition’s final on Sunday.
The 34-year-old midfielder was targeted following his earlier criticism of players who chose to move from Europe to play in the Saudi Pro League.
In a post on X after the final, he said: “We just won a trophy!”
In response, one X user said: “You won the trophy, but you lost the respect of all Saudi fans. We are not happy to see you in our country, we hope that is the last time.”
However, another user praised Kroos’ 95 percent passing accuracy in the match, despite the boos.
Kroos had received a similar negative reaction from the crowd during his team’s match against Atletico Madrid in the cup semi-final.
AlUla Trail Race 2026 opens for runner registration
Open to beginners and experienced athletes worldwide
Distances from 1.6km to 100km for children and adults
Updated 11 December 2025
Arab News
ALULA: Registration has now opened for the AlUla Trail Race to be held on Jan. 22 and 23 next year.
The contest offers local and international participants a selection of distances and challenges set against the dramatic landscapes and ancient heritage sites of AlUla, located in Madinah.
According to a Saudi Press Agency report on Wednesday, the race is open to beginners and experienced runners.
The series includes a Kids Run (1.6 km) for children aged 5 to 12, Sunset Run (3 km) for those 13 and above, and a 10 km and 23 km for more experienced participants.
There are also demanding 50 km and 100 km ultra trail races for the most resilient and skilled runners. All routes will end in Old Town, ensuring an exciting finish for both runners and spectators.
On the first day, runners will arrive to collect their race packs before taking part in the Kids Run and the Sunset Run. Race kits can be collected at the event village, which will be located at the amphitheater in Old Town.
AlUla Trail Race 2026 offers participants a selection of distances and challenges set against the dramatic landscapes and ancient heritage sites of AlUla. (SPA)
Day two will host the competitive distances, beginning at sunrise with the 100 km, followed by the 50 km, 23 km, and 10 km. Medal ceremonies will take place throughout the day as runners cross the finish line.
The organizers said every participant will receive an official AlUla Trail Race 2026 pack, including a tote bag, buff, race T-shirt, timing chip, and bib number. Entry fees begin at SR100 ($26) and SR50 for children.
The contest is a part of the AlUla Moments 2025/26 calendar, a year-round schedule of events and festivals designed to promote the area as a premier destination for tourism, sports, culture, and heritage.
Other world-class sports events include the professional cycling AlUla Tour, AlUla Desert Polo, and the Al-Fursan Endurance AlUla — one of the most prestigious endurance races on the equestrian calendar.
