The truth about the cancellation of the Egyptian league by decision of Hani Abu Rida
In a significant statement that put an end to the rumors circulating in the sports community, Hani Abu Rida, president of the Egyptian Football Association, definitively denied recent reports that the association intended to cancel the Premier League this season. These reports had claimed there was a move to cancel the domestic competition to allow sufficient time for the national team to prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
A firm denial and the competition continues
Abu Rida confirmed in official statements published on the Egyptian Football Association's website that there is no intention, now or in the future, to cancel the Premier League. He clarified that the rumors circulating in recent days are merely unfounded speculation, emphasizing the importance of completing the domestic competition to maintain the players' technical and physical fitness and to guarantee the rights of clubs and sponsors, which is a fundamental pillar for the stability of the football system in Egypt.
Pharaohs' roadmap and anticipated press conference
In a related context, the head of the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) indicated that the EFA intends to hold a comprehensive press conference next week. This conference aims to inform the public and the media about the national team's complete and comprehensive preparation plan. This plan includes training camps and friendly matches that the Pharaohs will play. The source noted that the team is in a group with strong teams such as Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran, necessitating top-level preparation to ensure full readiness.
Administrative preparation and FIFA workshop
On the administrative and logistical front, Abu Rida added that an official delegation from the Egyptian Football Association will fly to the United States on March 3rd. This visit comes in response to an invitation from FIFA to attend a specialized workshop aimed at discussing the arrangements and preparations for the world's most important tournament, reflecting the Egyptian FA's commitment to participating in all preparatory events for the World Cup.
2026 World Cup: An exceptional edition and new challenges
The Egyptian national team's preparations take on added importance given the historic nature of the upcoming World Cup. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be held in June and July and will be the first in history to feature 48 teams instead of 32. This expansion increases the chances for African teams, as the continent's quota has risen to nine and a half slots. This places a significant responsibility on Egyptian football to ensure its presence at this major global event and make up for missing the previous edition. This requires a delicate balance between the regularity of domestic competitions and the strength of the national team's preparation.
