Khalaf Al Habtoor rules out any role in Zamalek’s football operation

Khalaf Al Habtoor has rejected claims that he is seeking to buy Zamalek or invest in the Egyptian club’s football company, saying he has made no financial offer and held no negotiations.

The Emirati businessman said reports circulating in some media outlets and on social media about his alleged interest were completely untrue.

“ I was surprised to see reports circulating again in some media outlets and social media platforms about my intention to buy Zamalek or submit financial offers to invest in its football company,” Al Habtoor wrote on his official Facebook page.

“ I would like to make clear that these reports are entirely false and have no basis whatsoever. I have not made any offer to buy the club or invest in it, nor have I entered into any negotiations on the matter. Anything published about financial sums or alleged agreements has no connection with reality.”

Al Habtoor said he held Zamalek and its supporters in high regard and remained interested in supporting sport and young people in Egypt. However, he stressed that backing sporting activities was separate from investing in and managing football clubs.

“ I am a sports enthusiast and have the utmost respect and appreciation for the historic Zamalek, as well as for all Egyptian sports clubs and their supporters,” he said.

“ I am also always keen to support Egyptian youth and encourage their achievements. I have demonstrated that in practice through our initiatives to support sport, including honouring the Egypt national football team after its commendable performance in the World Cup.”

He added: “But supporting sport and young people is one thing, while investing in and managing football clubs is something entirely different.

“ I have no investments in this field, nor do I claim to possess the necessary expertise to manage and develop sports clubs. I have no plans to enter it.”

Al Habtoor also called on media organisations to verify information before publishing reports connected to his name, projects or investments, and urged them not to present inaccurate claims as facts.

He concluded: “All my love and appreciation go to the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt and its dear people. I wish Zamalek and all Egyptian clubs continued progress and success, and I hope Egyptian sport enjoys further achievements and distinction.”