Waleed Al-Farraj confirms return date after reports of suspension

Saudi sports presenter Waleed Al-Farraj says he expects to return to television with Rotana Sport with Waleed during Friday’s matches, following an absence that had prompted reports he was suspended and referred for investigation.

Al-Farraj announced the timing of his return in a post on his personal account on X. He wrote: “My dear ones, thank you for all your feelings and prayers. God willing, we will return to you on Rotana Sport with Waleed during Friday’s matches, God willing. We have missed you.”

The presenter has not appeared on Rotana Khalijia since last Friday, despite being the main host of Rotana Sport with Waleed. His absence led to speculation about the reason for his break from the screen.

Reports circulating during that period claimed Al-Farraj had been suspended from appearing on television and referred for investigation. Those reports alleged that the action was linked to media violations that had been attributed to him.

Al-Farraj’s message did not provide details about the reports or explain the circumstances surrounding his absence. Instead, he thanked those who had expressed their support and sent prayers, while confirming that he intended to resume presenting the programme with Friday’s fixtures.

The return will mark the latest stage of Al-Farraj’s move to the Rotana network. He joined the network after presenting Action with Waleed on MBC Action during the previous season.

His current programme, Rotana Sport with Waleed, is broadcast on Rotana Khalijia, where he serves as the principal presenter. The programme’s schedule places particular focus on football coverage, including matches from the Roshn Saudi League.

Al-Farraj’s announcement indicates that viewers should expect to see him back on screen with the Friday match coverage, although his post did not refer directly to the reported suspension or investigation. The reports about his absence therefore remain part of the background to his statement rather than an issue he addressed in detail.

His message was accompanied by expressions of affection for viewers and several heart emojis, reinforcing his thanks to those who had contacted him during his time away from the programme. The key information in the post was that his return is planned for Friday’s matches on Rotana Sport with Waleed.