Serie A officially confirmed that the 2026 edition of the Italian Super Cup will once again unfold in Saudi Arabia, with Jeddah hosting the event. This marks a significant continuation of the league’s partnership with the Middle Eastern nation, which will host four of the next six editions of the prestigious tournament. Serie A’s official channels published the confirmation, which Nicolo Schira, a renowned journalist, echoed. This reinforces Saudi Arabia’s escalating presence in elite football.
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Four-Team Final Four Format Continues
For the second consecutive time, the Italian Super Cup will follow the ‘Final Four’ model, ensuring added drama and expanded competition. AC Milan and Bologna have already punched their tickets to the tournament by reaching the Coppa Italia final. With the Serie A campaign still ongoing, Napoli and Inter appear poised to secure their spots based on league standings, though their qualification depends on the final table.
This evolved format has transformed the Super Cup from a traditional one-off into a multi-day spectacle, increasing international appeal and giving more clubs the opportunity to battle for early-season silverware.
Defending Champions Milan Aim to Retain Crown
Milan, last year’s Super Cup winners, will arrive in Jeddah with hopes of repeating their success. The Rossoneri lifted the trophy in Riyadh after defeating city rivals Inter in a fiery contest. By securing a place in the Coppa Italia final once again, Milan have already guaranteed their involvement, ensuring a shot at defending their title on Saudi soil.
Their confirmed presence brings added attention to the tournament, especially given their recent domestic resurgence and consistent continental ambitions. The Rossoneri’s familiarity with the conditions in Saudi Arabia could also offer a psychological edge.
Joining Milan in the competition is Bologna, who reached the Coppa Italia final and will make a rare appearance in the Super Cup. The club’s presence injects a fresh storyline into the tournament, breaking the usual dominance of Italy’s traditional heavyweights.
Inter’s Scheduling Concerns Cloud Participation
Despite their likely qualification as one of Serie A’s top two finishers, Inter have publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the decision to stage the tournament in Saudi Arabia. The Nerazzurri, who have already faced fixture congestion this year, are wary of enduring a similar overload.
Corriere della Sera reported that ,“Super Cup in Arabia, the Nerazzurri are not happy,”. The concern primarily stems from travel demands, logistical challenges, and an already packed domestic and European calendar. The club believes another mid-season trip to the Gulf could negatively affect player performance and overall season rhythm.
Napoli, expected to claim the other Serie A qualifying spot, will be eager to leave a mark in Jeddah. After a rollercoaster season with flashes of brilliance, the Naples-based side sees the Super Cup as an opportunity to collect silverware and validate their domestic campaign.
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FAQs
The Italian Super Cup 2026 will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
AC Milan and Bologna have qualified as Coppa Italia finalists, while Inter and Napoli are likely to join based on Serie A standings.
Serie A signed an agreement to host four of the next six Super Cup editions in Saudi Arabia to expand its global reach.
The Italian Super Cup 2026 will be played in January.
Inter voiced concern over increased travel and fixture congestion affecting their season.
