Saudi Arabia: Football ‘commentator’ wanted for inciting tribalism

Cairo: Saudi authorities have ordered the arrest of a man accused of inciting tribal discord while commenting on a local football match.

The man, whose name or age was not disclosed, was heard in a recent online video clip commenting on a televised match between two clubs in the southern Saudi region of Asir. “Shahran are advancing against Asaria,” he said, referring to major tribes residing in Asir.

Asir Governor Prince Turki bin Talal directed police to take the legal procedures against the main.

“Prince Turki has ordered the man be brought for questioning and the case be referred to public prosecution,” a spokesman for the region.

Authorities in Asir, meanwhile, condemned the man’s act, calling it “disgraceful” and “alien to sportsmanship”.

Saudi Arabia strictly bans different aspects of sporting fanaticism. In recent months, several football fans and commentators have faced legal action over fanatical slurs.