Israeli national anthem, the Hatikvah, was played in Saudi Arabia for what is likely the first time in the Kingdom’s history, during an esports tournament which included Israeli competitors.
The flag of the State of Israel was also flown by the Israeli team, comprised of five Israeli nationals.
FIFA, the international governing body of football associations, flew the team from the UAE to Riyadh using Israeli passports last Friday, and mediated between the Saudi and Israeli governments in preparation for the competition.
Israelis are not usually permitted to enter Saudi Arabia, who do not officially recognise the Jewish State. Ties, however, have recently warmed between the two nations, with the US pursuing diplomatic efforts to normalise relations according to reports.
FIFA published footage of the Israeli national symbols which were displayed during a dress rehearsal for the opening ceremony, with the official tournament taking place from 16-19 July.
The team from Israel is reportedly ranked second in the world for the esport.
Saudi Vision 2030, a modernising programme to transform the social and economic framework of Saudi Arabia, has led to the development of the games in the Kingdom. The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) launched the Savvy Games Group in 2022 to become a “global hub” for online gaming, whilst the Saudi Esports Federation has put aside a prize pool of $3 million for the competition.
