The Saudi Pro League: how many clubs, how the format works, and why it drew the world's stars. A complete guide.
The Saudi Pro League is the top tier of Saudi football, contested by 18 clubs competing for the title across the season. In recent years it has become one of the most talked-about leagues in the world.
League format
Each club plays every other twice (home and away) on points: three for a win, one for a draw. The top team is crowned champion, the leading clubs qualify for the AFC Champions League, and the bottom clubs are relegated to the Yelo League.
The big clubs
The scene is led by Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli, with huge followings and rich histories of domestic and continental titles, including some of Asia's greatest derbies.
Why did it attract the world's stars?
With Cristiano Ronaldo joining Al-Nassr in early 2023 and a wave of global signings, the league became a major destination within the Kingdom's vision to develop sport, raising the level of competition and global coverage.
How to follow the league
Follow Saudi Pro League results, standings and top scorers live on Shahid Live, with kickoff times in Saudi time.
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