Exclusive to Koora: Will Zamalek secure a special dispensation to compete in African competitions, and how does Al Ahly stand on the matter?

When asked whether Al Ahly—per circulating reports—could apply to CAF to replace Zamalek in the competitions due to ongoing legal issues, or could object to their rivals’ licensing for any reason, the expert’s reply was unequivocal.

He told Koora: “The application must be submitted to the Licensing Committee of the Egyptian Football Association, in accordance with Article 5 of the CAF Club Licensing Regulations.”

Should Zamalek ultimately fail to meet the participation requirements, the CAF Club Competitions Organisation Committee will decide on a replacement, he added, stressing that the process must follow the relevant regulations.

Asked whether Al Ahly, who finished third in the league, would join Pyramids (second place) in the competition should Zamalek be ruled out, he replied, “Yes, it is only fair that the team in the next qualifying position steps in, provided it satisfies all requirements.”

If no club in a given country meets the criteria, that nation remains unrepresented, as happened in the 2024–2025 CAF competitions when no Gambian side qualified.

On how Arab clubs can avoid suspension, the Lebanese lawyer advised, “Contracts must not exceed the club’s financial capacity, and an international sports lawyer should be present daily to monitor all contract details and potential disputes, working to find amicable and fair solutions for all parties.”