Ali Bencheikh has been elected president of the newly established National Association of Algerian Players following the body’s constitutive and elective general assembly held on Monday.
The former MC Alger midfielder, a standout figure of the 1970s and 1980s, secured a clear majority of votes to lead the long-awaited organisation, designed to give former players a stronger voice in shaping the future of Algerian football.
Bencheikh, 70, won 19 votes compared with six for his only rival, former JS Kabylie striker Nacer Bouiche.
The election was attended by 25 ex-internationals, who gathered to formalise the launch of the association and cast their votes for its first president.
The result came as little surprise, with Bencheikh long considered the frontrunner for the role.
His election marks the beginning of a four-year mandate, during which he will represent the interests of past players in national football debates, particularly within the Algerian Football Federation (FAF).
The new association aims to provide a platform for former professionals to contribute to decision-making processes, ensuring their perspectives are integrated into the broader governance of the sport.
In his capacity as president, Bencheikh will also sit on the National Refereeing Committee (CNRL) as well as the FAF general assembly.
The veteran playmaker, who earned admiration for his elegance on the pitch and his influence with MC Alger during their golden years, now assumes a different kind of leadership role off the field.
Backed by FAF president Walid Sadi, Bencheikh is expected to unveil the composition of his executive committee in the coming days.
The body will consist of four members who will work alongside him to define the association’s priorities and first initiatives.
For the community of retired players, the creation of this organisation represents a long-awaited step.
Many had campaigned for a formal structure through which their views could be better represented, particularly on issues such as welfare, development pathways, and the preservation of Algerian football’s legacy.
The establishment of the National Association of Algerian Players adds a new dimension to the country’s football landscape.
With Ali Bencheikh at the helm, the coming years are likely to determine how effectively former professionals can influence policy and contribute to the evolution of the game in Algeria.
