The Saudi Professional League is set to move the Riyadh Derby between Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, scheduled for next December as part of Matchday 17 of the season, to King Fahd Stadium in Riyadh, instead of Al-Olaya Park.
Saudi sports newspaper Al-Riyadh reported that the stadium is expected to host the capital's derby on Friday, December 11, as an operational trial for the venue, which will host four matches during the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, including the final.
The AFC Asian Cup will be held in Saudi Arabia from January 7 to February 5, 2027.
The report stated that the Ministry of Sport has informed the Saudi Professional League to coordinate the organization of the match at King Fahd Stadium, with the aim of testing the facility's operational readiness.
The test will cover the pitch, lighting, screens, the smoothness of fan entry and exit, and crowd management.
It will also assess the readiness of the stands, construction works, and various stadium facilities.
The league is expected to contact Al-Nassr, as the home team, to make the necessary arrangements for the venue change, while retaining the privileges granted to them as the home side.
