Renowned football administrator Alhaji Karim Grusah has revealed that he received a generous financial reward from the late King Faisal of Saudi Arabia after naming his club, King Faisal FC, in honor of the monarch. Speaking in an interview with Sporty FM on February 24, 2025, Grusah disclosed that the late king gifted him $5,000 as a token of appreciation for the gesture.
Alhaji Grusah explained that the decision to name his club after King Faisal was inspired by the monarch’s significant role in promoting peace during the Israel-Palestine conflict. “I renamed my team King Faisal to honor the King of Saudi Arabia for his role in the Israel-Palestine conflict. The King of Saudi Arabia sent me $5,000 after I named my club after him,” he said.
The football administrator’s revelation sheds light on the unique connection between sports and global diplomacy, as well as the impact of King Faisal’s legacy beyond the borders of Saudi Arabia.
About King Faisal
Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the third son of King Abdulaziz, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia, reigned as king from November 2, 1964, until his assassination in 1975. Born in Riyadh, he served as Crown Prince and Prime Minister before ascending to the throne. Known for his efforts to stabilize Saudi Arabia’s bureaucracy and his progressive reforms, King Faisal was a popular figure among Saudis despite facing some controversy.
His reign was marked by significant contributions to global diplomacy, particularly his involvement in resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict. Following his assassination by his nephew Faisal bin Musaid in 1975, he was succeeded by his half-brother Khalid.
Alhaji Grusah’s decision to name his club after King Faisal not only honored the late monarch’s legacy but also forged a unique bond between Ghanaian football and Saudi Arabian history.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
