The situation surrounding Etoile Sportive du Sahel (ESS) and the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) is escalating and could trigger a broader crisis in Tunisian football.
Background:
During a heated match between CA Bizertin and ES Sahel, supporters of CA Bizertin unfurled a banner deemed insulting to the Sahel region, provoking outrage among ESS leadership.
In response, ESS president Houcine Jenayeh made politically charged and inflammatory statements, which led the FTF to impose sanctions:
6-match suspension
Fine of 3,000 dinars
Fallout:
According to Afrik-Foot, ESS officials are furious about the disciplinary measures and are now threatening to withdraw confidence in the FTF’s federal office.
The FTF is seriously considering suspending the league until after the December presidential election, fearing that renewed tensions or statements could destabilize the already delicate political and sporting atmosphere.
What This Means:
The crisis reflects a growing overlap between football and political identity in Tunisia, with regional sensitivities (like those around the Sahel) inflaming disputes.
The possibility of a championship suspension underscores how serious the federation views the potential for further unrest.
This could set a precedent for increased FTF intervention in club behavior tied to political expression — a complicated and controversial space.
What to Watch:
Whether ESS follows through on its threat to challenge the FTF leadership.
If the league is suspended, how it affects clubs, players, and Tunisia’s reputation regionally.
The reaction of other clubs, who may take sides or use this as an opportunity to push their own agendas.
This is a situation that could have long-term consequences for governance and unity within Tunisian football.
