Algerian star Riyad Mahrez and his Al Ahli teammates were formally received by Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sports, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, on Monday to celebrate their historic triumph in the AFC Champions League.
The reception followed Al Ahli’s landmark victory in the continental tournament, marking the first time the club has claimed the prestigious title.
In recognition of their achievement, the team visited the Ministry of Sports where they were congratulated by Prince Abdulaziz, who commended their exceptional performance and competitive spirit throughout the campaign.
Photographs of Mahrez and the Al Ahli squad with the Champions League trophy and the minister were widely circulated, capturing a moment of pride for Saudi football and its rising prominence on the Asian stage.
In parallel with the official celebrations, local media reports have shed light on the significant financial rewards awaiting the players.
According to the Saudi daily Al-Riyadhiyah, each Al Ahli player will be awarded a bonus of one million Saudi riyals for clinching the continental crown.
The funding of the bonus will be a joint effort between the club and the Saudi Ministry of Sports.
Al-Riyadhiyah reported that Al Ahli will cover 700,000 riyals per player, while the remaining 300,000 riyals will be contributed by the ministry, in a gesture directed by Prince Abdulaziz himself.
The financial incentive reflects not only the magnitude of the club’s achievement but also the strategic investment Saudi authorities are making in raising the standards and profile of football in the kingdom.
The gesture also underscores the growing synergy between government bodies and major clubs as part of a broader vision to position Saudi football on the global stage.
During the official ceremony, Prince Abdulaziz lauded the role of Riyad Mahrez, the captain of the Algerian national team, for his outstanding displays throughout the tournament.
According to Nabs, the Saudi Minister of Sports expressed admiration for Mahrez’s leadership and quality, acknowledging the title as a valuable addition to the winger’s already impressive collection of honours.
This latest victory and recognition further cements Mahrez’s legacy as one of Africa’s most decorated footballers, and marks a defining chapter in Al Ahli’s club history.
