Saudi Arabia soccer officials issued an apology Friday after the national team failed to acknowledge a tribute to victims of last weekend's London Bridge attack, insisting that players "did not intend any disrespect."
Prior to Australia's 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia in 2018 World Cup qualifying, the team's players linked arms during a moment of silence, while the Saudi players continued to stretch despite being made aware of the tribute.
Related: FFA knew Saudi Arabia wouldn't observe minute's silence for London attack
Following an uproar over the country's perceived lack of respect, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation indicated that there was no disrespect intended towards the victims of the attack, which claimed eight lives and injured 48.
"The players did not intend any disrespect to the memories of the victims or to cause upset to their families, friends or any individual affected by the atrocity," the federation said in a statement.
"The Saudi Arabian Football Federation condemns all acts of terrorism and extremism and extends its sincerest condolences to the families of all the victims and to the government and people of the United Kingdom."
FIFA confirmed that no disciplinary action will be taken.
- With h/t to the BBC
