In a significant development for Egyptian sports governance, Ashraf Sobhi, the Minister of Youth and Sports, recently addressed the contentious issue surrounding proposed amendments to the sports law, particularly the controversial 8-year term limit for boards of directors of sports federations and clubs.
During a live radio interview on March 22, 2025, Sobhi expressed his commitment to developing sports law to align with international standards while tackling crucial governance issues. He stated, "Tackling the 8-year term is a strategy from the time I was appointed Minister of Youth and Sports, which I presented to the political leadership and the Council of Ministers in all areas of youth and sports," emphasizing his focus since assuming office.
The 1975 sports law in Egypt, described by Sobhi as "strong, but over time it has been modified, along with the sports investment file," frames the context of the current discussions. The proposed amendments seek to create a more transparent and effective governance framework around sports organizations, reflecting both national interests and international best practices.
Adding to the urgency of these discussions is the ongoing crisis regarding the recent summit match between two of Egypt's most popular clubs, Al-Ahly and Zamalek. Sobhi reiterated his ministry's proactive approach to manage this crisis, noting, "The crisis around the summit match has escalated, and with the decision from the Egyptian Olympic Committee, all parties will have the right to express their views, including local and international appeals." This demonstrates the heightened tensions and the need for structured responses to such incidents.
Looking ahead, Sobhi remarked on the importance of refining the governance of sports disputes, addressing how communication with the Saudi Sports Ministry about officiating for the match was established quickly following requests for intervention. Despite these efforts, proposed appointments of referees have faced objections from various stakeholders, escalating matters to the Egyptian Olympic Committee.
"The international Olympic Charter grants the Authority 3 roles to the Council, and there is no opinion today; when we have an opinion, we will convey it until we close this file," Sobhi declared, indicating that these governance frameworks are not instantaneously resolved but are subject to intense scrutiny and debate. Sobhi's statements underscore the balancing act between immediate sports management needs and long-term structural reforms.
Amid these developments, the sports community has remained alert to the potential outcomes of Sobhi's proposals and the responses from various quarters, given the intricate connection between sports governance and national identity in Egypt. While the road to implementation may be fraught with challenges, Sobhi's commitment to reform invites optimism among stakeholders eager for clarity and efficiency in sport management.
As discussions unfold regarding the sports law amendments, the implications for future governance, stakeholder engagement, and compliance with international standards will undoubtedly shape the landscape of sports in Egypt in the years to come. Whether the proposed changes achieve their intended balance between ambition and obligation remains to be seen, but Sobhi's initiatives reflect a promising direction for Egyptian sports governance.
