New Leadership Takes the Helm: Walid Sadi Elected President of Algerian Football Federation

BY: Hana Saada

Algiers, September 21, 2023 – In a significant turn of events at the National Technical Center (CTN) of Sidi Moussa, Mr. Walid Sadi secured a resounding victory to become the new president of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF). The eagerly awaited elective general assembly, held on Thursday, September 21, 2023, witnessed Mr. Sadi as the sole candidate, gaining 76 out of 82 votes in his favor. With this election, he now assumes the monumental responsibility of steering Algerian football through the 2021-2025 Olympic mandate.

The outcome of the election highlighted the overwhelming support for Mr. Sadi’s vision for Algerian football. Out of the 82 eligible voters, 76 cast their votes in favor of Mr. Sadi, while 5 ballots opposed his candidacy. Additionally, one vote was deemed invalid, underscoring the resounding mandate that the new president has received from the football community.

Mr. Sadi’s election marks a pivotal moment in the history of the FAF, as he becomes the 19th president of the organization since Algeria’s independence. He takes the reins from Mr. Djahid Zefizef, who, in turn, succeeded Mr. Amara Charaf-Eddine. Both predecessors had seen their mandates cut short due to resignations in June 2022 and July 2023, respectively.

The composition of the newly appointed federal office for the remainder of the 2023-2025 mandate is as follows:

– President: Mr. Walid Sadi.

– Members: Mr. Ahmed Kharchi, Mr. Abdelkader Bouteiba, Djamil Ould Amar, Radhwane Negadi, Mohamed Amine Mesloug, Lahcène Tombouktou, Rachid El Jakani, Mourad Meziane, Nacer Chareb, Karim Kaced, Alaâ Edine Aissani, Ali Melik, Imad Amissi.

The Elective General Assembly (AGE) was conducted in exemplary conditions and was graced by the presence of FIFA representatives, including Mr. Gelson Fernandes Conceiçao, Africa Director, and Ms. Fatou Binetou Ba Ndiaye, head of FIFA member associations. Furthermore, officials from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) also attended, namely Ms. Sarah Makuna, Director of member associations, and Mr. Mahmoud Hamami, Executive Director of the Union of North African Football (UNAF).

As we celebrate the election of Mr. Walid Sadi and anticipate the developments he will bring to Algerian football, it is worth reflecting on the lineage of presidents who have led the FAF since its inception in 1962:

1. Mohand Maouche: October 1962 – October 1969.
2. Mustapha Benaouniche: October 1969 – July 1973.
3. Amar Benadouda: July 1973 – May 1975.
4. Abdennour Bekka: August 1975 – January 1978.
5. Mohamed Kara-Terki: January 1978 – October 1980.
6. Benali Hadj Sekkal: November 1980 – November 1982.
7. Omar Kezzal: November 1982 – April 1984, July 1989 – November 1992, April 2000 – August 2001.
8. Issad Dhomar: May 1984 – April 1986.
9. Belaïd Lacarne: September 1987 – October 1988.
10. Mouldi Aïssaoui: September 1993 – July 1994.
11. Rachid Harraïgue: July 1994 – January 1995.
12. Mohamed Laïb: August 1996 – December 1996.
13. Mohamed Diabi: November 1997 – June 1999.
14. Mohamed Raouraoua: November 2001 – January 2006, February 2009 – February 2013, March 2013 – February 2017.
15. Hamid Haddadj: January 2006 – February 2009.
16. Kheïreddine Zetchi: March 2017 – April 2021.
17. Charaf-Eddine Amara: April 2021 – June 2022.
18. Djahid Abelouahab Zefizef: July 2022 – July 2023.
19. Walid Sadi: From September 2023 onwards.

The election of Mr. Walid Sadi stands as a beacon of hope and a fresh start for Algerian football, and fans eagerly anticipate the positive changes he will usher in during his tenure as president of the FAF.

Who is the new FAF’s President Walid Sadi?

With a rich history of achievements and an impeccable track record, Sadi is poised to usher in a new era of Algerian football. Let’s delve into the remarkable qualities and achievements that make him the ideal leader for this new chapter.

1. Unparalleled Management Experience:

Walid Sadi’s extensive background in managing the Algerian Football Federation sets him apart from his competitors. Having previously worked alongside Hajj Muhamzd Raouraoua, he possesses a deep understanding of the federation’s inner workings. Sadi’s expertise will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective to the organization, ensuring efficient and effective management.

2. Respected Popularity:

The adoration and support Walid Sadi enjoys among the Algerian public cannot be understated. His widespread popularity will serve as a driving force in reinvigorating Algerian football. With Sadi at the helm, there is no doubt that enthusiasm will reignite, drawing fans back to the stadiums and rallying the nation behind their beloved sport.

3. African Union Insight:

Sadi’s profound knowledge of the African Union and its dynamics positions him as a powerful advocate against the abuses and manipulations that have plagued the Confederation of African Football (CAF). His determination to address corruption, particularly in light of recent scandals, marks him as an agent of change who will restore integrity to the African football landscape.

4. Unparalleled Respect:

Walid Sadi is held in high regard by Algerians from all walks of life. His reputation as a person of integrity and dedication has earned him immense respect throughout the nation.

5. Expertise in Local Football:

Algerian football has endured significant challenges in recent years, particularly within the local leagues. However, Walid Sadi’s in-depth knowledge of the national championship and local football intricacies provides him with a unique advantage. Sadi’s insight and understanding will be instrumental in rejuvenating local football, ensuring that it receives the attention and respect it deserves.

In addition to his impressive qualifications and attributes, Walid Sadi’s exceptional achievements further validate his victory:

– Leading ES Setif to victory in the 2007 Arab Championship and the national championship, breaking a 23-year title drought.

– Serving as a member of the Federal Bureau and Director of the Algerian Football Federation national teams from 2009 to 2017.

– Instrumental in Algeria’ successful qualification for the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups.

– Guiding the Algerian national team to four African Cup of Nations finals appearances in 2010, 2013, 2015, and 2017.

– Transforming the Algerian Football Federation into one of the wealthiest and best-managed federations in Africa.

– As the Head of the Algerian mission, Walid Sadi successfully led the team in the World Cup South Africa in 2010 and Brazil in 2014, showcasing their remarkable skills and determination.

– Walid Sadi’s exceptional leadership as the Head of the Algerian delegation at the Olympic Games, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 2016, resulted in a memorable performance by the Algerian athletes.

– With his remarkable expertise, Walid Sadi guided the Algerian delegation as the Head in multiple African Cup tournaments (2010, 2013, 2015, and 2017), elevating Algeria’s presence and achievements on the continent.

– Walid Sadi’s influential role as a member of the Marketing and Broadcasting Rights Committee of the Confederation of African Football (2010 to 2016) contributed significantly to the growth and success of football in Africa.

– Serving as a member of the Football Development Committee in the Arab Football Association (2011 to 2015), Walid Sadi played a pivotal role in shaping the future of football in the Arab world.

– Walid Sadi’s outstanding representation of Algeria in FIFA events in Egypt showcased his exceptional ability to explain and defend the country’s interests, leading to Algeria’s triumphant outcome.

With a visionary leader like Walid Sadi at the helm, Algerian football fans can look forward to a promising future. His combination of experience, integrity, and passion for the game makes him the ideal president to steer Algerian football to greater heights on both the African and international stages. The nation eagerly awaits the positive changes that his presidency will bring to this beloved sport.