Saudi fans slammed for 'disgusting' lack of respect during Franz Beckenbauer tribute ahead of Spanish Super Cup clash

Fans in Saudi Arabia have been slammed for a lack of respect during Franz Beckenbauer tribute ahead of Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid.

On Wednesday night, the Al Awwal Park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia played host to the Spanish Super Cup tie between the two Madrid clubs.

The match went the full distance after it ended 3-3 with 90 minutes on the clock.

In the end, Real secured their place in Sunday night’s final after winning 5-3 thanks to an own goal by Stefan Savic and a goal from Brahim Diaz.

However, the fans inside the stadium have been slammed after they appeared to whistle during a minute’s silence in tribute to the death of Beckenbauer.

Reacting on social media, one fan said: “Disgusting scenes as Saudi Arabia fans whistle during the minute silence for Franz Beckenbauer before Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid.”

Another tweeted: “The shocking scene is why the Super Cup is being played in Saudi Arabia.”

A third fan added: “Why are they whistling?! Is there a reason?”

Someone else wrote: “Yeah they lost me with this one, that’s uncalled for.”

A fifth commented: “This is totally disrespectful.”

Disgusting scenes as Saudi Arabia fans whistle during the minute silence for Franz Beckenbauer before Real Madrid vs Atletico Madridpic.twitter.com/rf3GmD2mnO

— Total Football (@TotalFootbol) January 10, 2024

When announcing the Bayern Munich legend’s death, Beckenbauer’s family said in a statement: “It is with deep sadness that we announce that husband and father, Franz Beckenbauer, passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday, Sunday, surrounded by his family.

“We ask that you be able to mourn in silence and refrain from asking any questions."

However, it has been reported that the booing had nothing to do with Beckenbauer, according to Spanish media outlet Cadena SER quoted a local journalist, who said: “It has nothing to do with Beckenbauer, but with a more cultural issue.

“It is a custom or tradition in Saudi Arabia. It is frowned upon to have a minute of silence here.”