Egypt: Al Ahly won the league last season through their effort – Professional Clubs Association

A member of the Professional Clubs Association, Tharwat Sweilem, has affirmed that Al-Ahly was not given preferential treatment in last season’s Premier League title dispute.

Al-Ahly announced on Tuesday that the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) had upheld its claim to the league title following Pyramids’ challenge over the decision to deduct three points from Al-Ahly—rather than six—after the club withdrew from its match against Zamalek.

Speaking to Sada El Balad channel, Sweilem clarified: “When I previously confirmed Al-Ahly’s right to the league title, it was not to flatter them or to challenge Pyramids. We remain impartial and treat all clubs equally.”

He emphasized that the association’s actions were guided by regulations and the broader interests of Egyptian football. “The three-point deduction was fully in line with the rules. Our role was to ensure fairness, and the Court of Arbitration for Sport respects the regulations agreed upon by all clubs,” he said.

Sweilem highlighted the distinction between Al-Ahly’s case and other instances of match withdrawals: “Pyramids are champions of the CAF Champions League, and we respect them, but last season’s league was rightly won by Al-Ahly through their own efforts. Unlike clubs that withdraw intentionally, Al-Ahly never intended to withdraw—they simply requested foreign referees after being notified of the match date late.”

He added: “When a team withdraws without justification, a six-point deduction is warranted. Al-Ahly’s situation was different, and their reasoning led us to adjust the penalty to three points. This approach prevents other clubs from using withdrawal as a strategy.”

On the upcoming second-round draw, Sweilem assured clubs that previous mistakes would not be repeated: “We acknowledge errors from last season and are committed to correcting them. The draw will be public and held in front of all clubs. We plan to announce the date next week.”