Walid Sadi voices on Algeria’s bid to organize CAN 2025, candidacy for presidency of FAF
BY/ Hana Saada
ALGIERS- The race for the presidency of the Algerian Football Federation has commenced earlier than expected, with a suitor already announcing his intention to stand as a candidate. While the current boss of the FAF, Djahid Zefizef, was elected in July 2022 and will not end his mandate until 2025, Walid Sadi, a man of great notoriety within the Algerian football family, has thrown his hat into the ring.
Walid Sadi is well-known for his time as one of the executives of the management of “Wifak Sétif” football team and his role as manager of the national team during Mohamed Raouraoua’s reign. He was part of the marketing commission of the African Football Confederation and played a significant role in the team’s qualification for the World Cup in 2010 and 2014.
In an exclusive interview with Dzair Tube, Sadi announced his candidacy for the presidency of the FAF, stating that he will submit his file at the appropriate time, in the same way as the members of his office. He expressed his ambition and confidence, citing his experience during two terms at the FAF.
This is not the first time that Sadi has announced his candidacy for the highest post in the federal body. In 2021, he announced his candidacy before backtracking, leaving the way open to Charaf Eddine Amara. However, Sadi has categorically denied rumors of a conflict between him and national coach Djamel Belmadi.
In a response to a question on Algeria’s presence within the CAF Executive Office, he underlined: “It is important to note that internal conflicts have taken precedence over external matters, which has hindered Algeria’s ability to secure a position within the CAF Executive Office. In 2017, an opportunity presented itself for Algeria to obtain a seat within the Executive Office, but unfortunately, disagreements and interference from certain individuals prevented any Algerian from securing the position.’
And to add: “While the game may be played on the green rectangle, there is another game being played behind the scenes. From 2009 to 2017, Algeria had five representatives within the CAF committees, including myself. We were also members of the Arab Federation committees, and Algeria’ strength was recognized and respected during this era. However, today, we unfortunately witness a complete absence of Algeria within the CAF Executive Office. It is imperative that we address this issue and work towards securing a position within the Executive Office to ensure that Algeria’s voice is heard on the continental level.”
With respect to Algeria’s candidacy for the organization of the African Cup of Nations (CAN 2025), Sadi stated that “the country is more than capable of organizing multiple African Cup of Nations tournaments. This is due to the fact that Algeria boasts exceptional sports facilities, in addition to the far-sighted policy of its leadership. The world has come to recognize Algeria’s prowess in sports facilities, particularly in Africa. However, as an observer, I have witnessed some unsavory practices outside of the sports framework. Unfortunately, the choice of host country is not always based on facilities alone, but rather on the behind-the-scenes game that takes place.”
He went on to say: “In my opinion, the federation has not fulfilled its role adequately, and our chances of hosting the 2025 tournament are slim. Despite this, Algeria has the potential to win the bid thanks to its impressive facilities. In addition, some parties are plotting to deprive Algeria of hosting the 2027 tournament as well.”
