Ronaldo’s Saudi Super Cup absence dismissed before Al-Nassr’s Kuwait trip

Television reports have dismissed claims that Cristiano Ronaldo will miss the Saudi Super Cup, with the Al-Nassr captain expected to travel with his team for the tournament in Kuwait.

Reports in Kuwait had suggested the Portugal forward would not take part, prompting disappointment among supporters who had hoped to watch him in the competition.

However, Saudi broadcaster Turki Al-Ajmah said the information available indicated Ronaldo would be involved. Speaking on the Al-Manssa programme on Thmanyah channels, he said: “Some news accounts in Kuwait said Ronaldo would not participate in the Saudi Super Cup, but the information we have at this moment is that he will be with Al-Nassr in Kuwait.”

Al-Ajmah added that Ronaldo was keen to return to Kuwait after visiting the country previously.

“Ronaldo is excited to be in Kuwait because he has been there before and wants to see the fans again,” he said. “Some reports also suggest that Al-Nassr may hold a two- or three-day training camp before the tournament begins, to meet supporters.”

He concluded: “Therefore, all the reports saying Ronaldo will not be present at the Saudi Super Cup are incorrect. He will take part and is excited about it, while the tournament is expected to be one of the best editions.”

The Saudi Super Cup will be held in Kuwait between 19 and 23 December 2026, with four clubs involved: Al-Nassr, Al-Kholood, Al-Ahli and Al-Qadsiah.

Al-Ahli face Al-Qadsiah in the first semi-final on 19 December, while Al-Nassr play Al-Kholood the following day. The winners will meet in the final on 23 December.

Al-Hilal will not participate despite winning the King’s Cup last season. The club is serving a punishment after withdrawing from the previous edition of the Saudi Super Cup.

This will be the first time the Saudi Super Cup has been staged in Kuwait. The tournament has previously been held three times in London, once in Abu Dhabi and once in Hong Kong.

Al-Hilal are the competition’s most successful club, having won five titles in 2015, 2018, 2021, 2023 and 2024. Al-Ahli and Al-Nassr have each lifted the trophy twice, with Al-Nassr winning in 2019 and 2020, and Al-Ahli claiming the 2016 title as well as last year’s edition in 2025.

Al-Ittihad won the competition in 2022, while Al-Fateh were champions in 2013 and Al-Shabab in 2014.

Ronaldo has scored nine goals in 12 appearances for Al-Nassr in all competitions this season, although he has not registered an assist.