AAR RASS, SAUDI ARABIA — In a perfect display of his “fan-first” philosophy, Al-Kholoud owner Ben Harburg was seen celebrating the club’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Damac FC from a place he has made his own: the general stands. The win, secured on Thursday at Al Hazem Club Stadium, was not only a crucial three points for Al-Kholoud in the Saudi Pro League, but also a memorable moment for the supporters who saw their new owner share in their excitement
While most club owners watch matches from the VIP box, Harburg has repeatedly shown his preference for a more grassroots experience. For this pivotal match against Damac, he was spotted among the Al-Kholoud faithful, cheering alongside them and experiencing the full range of emotions as the game unfolded.
The match was a tense affair. Al-Kholoud took an early lead through Ramiro Enrique, but Damac quickly equalized. The second half was a tight contest, but in the 81st minute, a moment of brilliance sealed the win. John Buckley scored a stunning free-kick, sending the Al-Kholoud supporters—and their new owner—into a frenzy of celebration.
For the Al-Kholoud community, the victory felt like more than just a win; it was a testament to the new era that Harburg is trying to build. His presence in the stands isn’t just a publicity stunt; it’s a tangible commitment to his vision of building a club that is deeply rooted in its community. By sitting with the fans, he demonstrated a genuine passion for the team and a shared belief in its potential.
The win against Damac, combined with the visible bond between the owner and the supporters, has created a wave of optimism for Al-Kholoud. It signals that under Harburg’s leadership, the club is not just focused on winning on the pitch but also on building a lasting connection with the people who matter most: the fans.
