Real and Barcelona clash again in the Super Cup final showdown

In Saudi Arabia, after a Spanish Super Cup game that ended in Real Madrid's victory, two wives of Mallorca players claimed they faced harassment from local fans. Cristina Palavra, wife of midfielder Dani Rodríguez, and Natalia Kaluzova, spouse of goalkeeper Dominik Greif, described their uncomfortable experience while exiting the King Abdullah Sports City stadium with their children. They reported being targeted by a group of men who took photos and harassed them verbally and physically. This incident has sparked renewed scrutiny regarding Saudi Arabia's treatment of women, particularly as the country prepares to host the 2034 World Cup, highlighting ongoing concerns about women's rights in the region. The reaction from club officials and the Spanish soccer federation was critical, as they expressed concern about the incident and promised to investigate. Mallorca described the wives' experience as part of a larger issue, with claims that around 250 individuals faced similar harassment. This incident raises significant questions about the appropriateness of holding international sporting events in countries with dubious human rights records. The broader implications of this incident may affect Spain's future relationships with Saudi Arabia, especially as various organizations and media outlets emphasize the necessity of addressing women's rights before major global events like the World Cup. The incident not only spotlights local attitudes towards women but also reflects the general behavior of fans during international matches. The presence or absence of adequate security remains a crucial topic of discussion for athletes and their families attending such events. Debates about the normalization of sports events in countries with poor human rights records have intensified since the Spanish Super Cup began being held in Saudi Arabia in 2020. Following criticisms about women's treatment and the potential impact on local culture, it remains to be seen whether such events will continue in the future without significant changes to ensure greater safety for all attendees, particularly women. This event serves as a stark reminder of the dual conversations happening: the excitement of sporting events juxtaposed with the serious implications of where they are hosted.