Egyptian Minister of Sports dissolves Ismaily board amid youth team challenges

Egypt’s Minister of Sports, Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, has suspended the Ismaily club board led by Nasr Abou El-Hassan, referring its members to public prosecution for investigation into financial and administrative irregularities.

According to ministry spokesperson Mohamed El-Shazly, the order also includes removing the executive director, financial director, and sports director from their roles pending investigations, with a temporary committee set to take control until the next general assembly.

This intervention follows several board resignations, financial hardships resulting in unpaid player salaries, and a FIFA decision blocking new signings due to outstanding cases. Premier League veterans Ahmed Fahim, Ahmed Abdel Rahman, Khaled Shawky, Mohsen Abdel Messih, and Mohamed Gamal previously resigned over disputes, accelerating ministerial action.

The ministry plans to work with local authorities and the Suez Canal Authority to secure stable sponsorship, focusing on safeguarding the club’s legacy and keeping operations transparent. Former players like Ali Gheit, Hosni Abd Rabbo, and Ali Abou Gresha are being considered for leadership roles.

Dr. Sobhy also congratulated Morocco for winning the U-20 World Cup, calling it “a moment of pride for all Arabs.” At an international gathering in Paris, he stressed the vital role of global cooperation in sports development and adapting to environmental changes, reaffirming Egypt’s commitment to sustainability and hosting world-class events.