KSAsportz report
RIYADH — The Saudi Pro League (SPL) has unveiled the complete schedule for the highly anticipated 2025-26 Roshn Saudi League (RSL) on Tuesday, signaling what is expected to be one of the most fiercely contested seasons in the league’s history. The new campaign is set to kick off on Thursday, August 28, 2025.
Defending champions Al Ittihad will start their campaign on the road against Al Okhdood before returning home for a crucial clash against Al Fateh and their rivals Al Nassr in Matchweek 3. Their early matches also include a confrontation with newly promoted Al Najmah, culminating in a Saudi Clasico showdown against Al Hilal in Matchweek 6.
Al Nassr, led by superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, will begin their season away at Al Taawoun, a team that surprised many in the previous season. Their high-stakes match against Al Ittihad will take place in Jeddah during Matchweek 4, while ambitious newcomers NEOM SC will face Al Nassr at home in Matchweek 8.
On the other hand, Al Hilal, fresh off a remarkable run to the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals, will kick off their campaign with a city derby against Al Riyadh. Their schedule also includes a home game against Al Qadsiah and an away match against Al Ahli in Matchweek 3, along with the critical Clasico match against Al Ittihad in Matchweek 6.
Promoted side NEOM SC, which dominated the Saudi First Division last season, will launch their campaign away against Al Ahli in Jeddah. The tabuk-based club has made major waves in the transfer market, securing high-profile signings including former Arsenal captain Alexandre Lacazette and goalkeeper Marcin Bulka under new coach Christophe Galtier.
Capital Derby: Al Hilal vs Al Nassr — Matchweek 15 (Hilal home) and Matchweek 32 (Nassr home)
Sea Derby: Al Ittihad vs Al Ahli — Matchweek 8 (Ittihad home) and Matchweek 25 (Ahli home)
Eastern Province Derby: Al Qadsiah vs Al Ettifaq — Matchweek 9 (Qadsiah home) and Matchweek 26 (Ettifaq home)
Saudi Clasico: Al Ittihad vs Al Hilal — Matchweek 6 (Ittihad home) and Matchweek 23 (Hilal home)
As Al Shabab aims for a strong start with multiple home games, star striker Abderrazak Hamdallah is inching closer to the all-time scoring record in the RSL, needing just five goals to match Omar Al Somah’s tally of 155 goals.
Meanwhile, Pericles Chamusca has returned to Al Taawoun after successfully leading NEOM SC to promotion. The club’s favorable early schedule may provide the momentum needed for a strong season.
The league is experiencing significant growth, with last season witnessing record broadcast deals across 183 territories and attendance figures exceeding 2.5 million fans. Additionally, there was a remarkable 200 percent increase in international sponsorship revenue, showcasing the league’s expanding influence.
With thrilling matchups, emerging challengers, and a packed calendar of rivalry games, the 2025-26 RSL season sets the stage for exhilarating football from the moment the whistle blows.