Football

Saudi Arabia continues to boost its global prestige while diversifying its economy and showcasing its rich national heritage through its love for the game

Politicians have used football to score political points, while some footballers have felt compelled to weigh in on national politics amid the rise of the far right

Football has become a mirror of society, showcasing the good, bad and ugly that come along with it

From the Ottoman era through the French Mandate and beyond, football's development in Syria is a tale of cultural change and social adaptation, charting a pattern of development followed by decay.

Affectionately known as Al-Fedayeen, the national football team reminded the world of a people's ambitions for statehood – and revealed the wider extent of demands for peace in Gaza. 

After the Turkish Super Cup in Riyadh is abandoned over a row about political slogans and images, confusion and double standards across the sport are brought clearly into focus.

Al Majalla pays homage to one of football's greatest magicians, Diego Maradona, who transcended boundaries and proved that a football was a moon whose light could touch the world.

"The Light at the End of the Stadium" is the first Arabic book that explores what football means to the region's youth, and the tradition of inherited football affiliations that runs through families.

The transfers of star footballers Ronaldo, Neymar, and Benzema to Saudi Arabia were felt around the world. Al Majalla explores how these major moves are shaking up the global sports landscape.

The Brazilian football star's recent move to Al-Hilal grabbed international headlines. Al Majalla sheds light on his distinguished career and how the move will impact the Saudi football scene.