Question : A question regarding [the validity of] watching sport’s matches.

Fatwa in Brief: It is not permitted if these matches involve prizes. Watching such matches is permitted [on three conditions]: if no prize is offered; the competitors do not dress immodestly [literally: show their “‘awrat”]; and they do not prevent Muslims from performing their religious duties.

The Permanent Committee, 15/238-239

Shaykh Sa‘id ‘Abdul ‘Azim, www.alsalafway.com

Response:

Both playing and watching sports’ matches are permitted. However, it is obligatory that Muslims maintain a high level of ethical behavior whilst playing/watching sports. Doing so must not dominate someone’s life to the point that it distracts him/her from performing his/her religious obligations.

Commentary:

It is known that any act which is not, in itself, harmful, and that no [authoritative] text prohibits, is permitted. This is because the original state of all things is to be permitted to us [until evidence is found that they are no longer permitted]. The proof of this legal flexibility is found in the Qur’anic verses: “He it is who created for you all that is in the Earth” (Q. 2:29); and “And hath made of service unto you whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth” (Q. 45: 13). The demands placed upon us by God’s law lie within our ability and energies; they should not stop us from enjoying the good things in life. Such enjoyment must remain within reasonable limits, and occur [only] for the purposes of relaxtion and enjoyment (tarwih ‘an al-nafs).

Such enjoyment [typically] includes sport. As it happens, football [or soccer] is an ancient sport. It is said that it was played in China for more than three thousand years ago. In its current state, the game began in Britain; but it grew in popularity until, these days, it is played throughout almost the entire world. As a general rule, it is permitted to play and watch such sports. It is vital, however, that Muslims keep such matters in perspective. Hence, they must maintain a high level of ethical behavior whilst playing/watching sports. And, doing so must not dominate someone’s life to the point that it distracts him/her from performing his/her religious obligations.[1]

According to the Fatwa Centre, under the Supervision of Dr. ‘Abdullah al-Faqih:

There is no legal prohibition against watching football and/or other sports if it does not involve any prohibited acts/things. Thus, men should not watch women athletes, or, vice versa. Neither should Muslims be so busy with matches that they forget the basic principles and demands of Islam, such as performing their five prayers, or respecting their parents. Supporting a team should not lead to fanaticism, as that, in turn, leads to hatred and feuding with others, and/ or saying things that contradict Muslim law, or general ethics.[2]

Dr. Anas Abu Shadi