Alexandre Lacazette and Said Benrahma are among the new faces at Neom SC this season. But the Saudi Pro League club is in the news for another reason. According to
Yahoo Sports, citing L’Équipe, the team has been paying fake fans to fill their stadium. These people are told to sing, clap, and wave flags during matches. The club is based in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Neom SC was promoted to the top league last year. With the futuristic Neom city still under construction, the team is struggling to build a real fan base.
L’Équipe: Neom SC paying €11 to fake supporters
L’Équipe reported that Neom SC hires people to fill empty seats. One fan told the outlet he gets instructions on WhatsApp. He is given a number to enter the ground. He earns €11 each night to make noise. He cheers, waves flags, and even celebrates wins with the players.
According to L’Équipe, this helps the club hide empty stands. It makes the atmosphere look lively on television. The fan said he is not a true supporter, but he plays the role of one. This practice is not new in Saudi Arabia.
Other clubs also use paid fans to avoid silence inside stadiums. Neom SC, new to the top league, has joined that list.
Christophe Galtier and French signings in Tabuk
Neom SC currently plays in Tabuk. The futuristic city of Neom is not ready yet. The team is coached by Christophe Galtier, the former Paris Saint-Germain manager.
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Christiano Ronaldo Al Nassr Stats, Current Salary, Endorsements, And Net Worth In 2025The club has been busy signing players from France. Said Benrahma joined from Olympique Lyonnais in January. Alexandre Lacazette, another Lyon star, followed later.
Marcin Bulka came from OGC Nice. Young defender Nathan Zézé arrived from FC Nantes. Saimon Bouabré joined from AS Monaco. Midfielder Amadou Koné moved from Stade de Reims.
These players give the squad strong French ties. But despite these moves, the club has no loyal fan base yet. The city project is still a dream.
The stadium often looks empty. So, according to L’Équipe, Neom SC turned to paying fans. The players now celebrate wins in front of hired supporters.
Catch Lovlina Borgohain's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 5. Watch HereSehjal Gupta is a sports journalist covering US and international...
Read MoreSehjal Gupta is a sports journalist covering US and international sports, with a specialization in the NFL. She has been writing about sports since 2025, reporting on leagues, tournaments, and athletes who shape the game. A Master’s in Management adds depth to her analysis, while her love for Hollywood movies and pop culture sparks her storytelling voice, a flair that also shapes her entertainment writing, giving it the same energy and creativity she brings to sports.
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