Crown Prince Cup
The oldest Saudi Arabian annual cup competition, abolished in 2017.
The Saudi Crown Prince Cup was the oldest Saudi Arabian annual cup competition.
- Competition Type
- National Knockout Cup (Discontinued)
- Original Name
- Crown Prince Cup
- Status
- Merged into King's Cup in 2018
- Club Achievement
- Multiple Titles Held
- Governing Body
- Saudi Arabian Football Federation
- Match Format
- Single Elimination
- Historical Significance
- Distinct Domestic Supremacy
Lore & Background
The cup was the oldest and first domestic football competition in Saudi Arabia; the first edition was held in 1956–57; five editions were played between regional teams and were not at the club level; the cup was not held in a lot of periods (1965–66, 1970–1972, 1975–1990). In its last years, the competition consisted of teams from the top two tiers of Saudi league football Saudi Pro League and Saudi First Division League. In 2017, it was abolished. Al-Hilal has won the most titles with 13 wins, also Al-Hilal has contested more finals with 17. Al-Ittihad is the last champion being the winner of 2016–17 season.
In Their Own Story
The floodlights hummed over the packed stands as the final whistle approached. A sea of yellow and blue surged forward, chanting for one last push. The goalkeeper swept the ball long, eyes locked on the striker breaking free down the wing. It was more than just a match; it was the culmination of months of sweat and sacrifice. When the net finally rippled, silence broke into roar. This was the moment history would remember.
Reader's Guide
Prize money: Final winner: 2,500,000 Saudi Riyals. Final runners-up: 1,500,000 Saudi Riyals.
Did You Know?
- The Crown Prince Cup was abolished in 2017, not merged into the King's Cup.
- Al-Hilal holds the record for most titles (13) and most finals appearances (17).
- Al-Ittihad was the last champion, winning the 2016–17 season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Crown Prince Cup?
It was a prestigious national knockout tournament in Saudi Arabia that ran separately from the King's Cup for decades. Al Nassr competed in this single-elimination format to prove their dominance alongside other top clubs before it ceased operations.
Why is the Crown Prince Cup significant to Al Nassr?
Winning this trophy was a major milestone that showcased the club's resilience and tactical brilliance during Saudi football's formative years. It stands as one of the most distinct pillars in the team's historical trophy cabinet, representing generations of glory.
Is the Crown Prince Cup still active today?
No, the competition was discontinued after being merged into the King's Cup by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation in 2018. Since then, it has no longer existed as a standalone tournament for Al Nassr or any other club.
How did Al Nassr perform in this tournament?
The club secured multiple titles throughout the competition's history, using it as a unique stage to display individual talent against fierce rivals. These victories remain a testament to the team's ability to succeed in high-stakes knockout matches.
What happened to the Crown Prince Cup trophy after 2018?
The specific silverware was retired when the tournament officially merged with the King's Cup, ending its status as a distinct competition. While the cup itself is no longer awarded, Al Nassr retains their historical titles from this era.
More in Club History & Eras
Elsewhere in the Al Nassr universe
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