Riyad Mahrez has been fined by the Asian Football Confederation following the AFC Champions League final, despite playing a key role in Al Ahli’s title-winning campaign.
The Algerian winger was handed a $10,000 fine for failing to appear in the mixed zone after the final against Vissel Kobe.
The sanction forms part of a wider disciplinary decision taken by the governing body in the aftermath of the match.
Mahrez was not the only player penalised, with Ivan Toney and Merih Demiral also receiving identical fines for similar breaches of media obligations.
In addition, Al Ahli have been ordered to pay $13,000 following incidents involving supporters and behaviour observed during the final.
The disciplinary action comes shortly after Al Ahli secured another continental title, marking a significant achievement for the club.
Despite the sanctions, the focus remains on the team’s success in the competition, where Mahrez was among the standout performers.
Throughout the tournament, the Algerian international delivered a series of influential displays, contributing to his side’s progress and eventual triumph.
His performances reinforced his importance within the squad, as he continued to provide creativity and attacking threat in key moments.
The fine relates solely to post-match obligations, with the AFC maintaining strict regulations regarding player availability for media duties after major fixtures. Failure to comply with these requirements typically results in financial penalties, as seen in this case.
While the sanction represents a minor setback following the final, it does not overshadow Mahrez’s contribution to the campaign.
His role in helping Al Ahli secure the title has been widely recognised, underlining his continued influence at club level.
As the club reflects on its continental success, the disciplinary measures serve as a reminder of the organisational standards enforced at the highest level of Asian football competitions.
