Saudi Arabia is moving to end the role of the United Arab Emirates in Yemen and diminish its neighbor’s influence in other arenas, including the Red Sea, as tensions rise in the longstanding rivalry between the two Gulf powerhouses.

While the Spanish Super Cup carries value as both a trophy and a commercial product, its importance to supporters is widely seen as secondary to La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and European competitions. This perception is reinforced by the tournament's location in Saudi Arabia, which many fans feel creates a disconnect.