The Algerian sports scene in 2023 was marked by numerous events, starting with the splendid organization of the African Nations Championship for local players, to Union of Algiers winning two continental titles, and ending the year with Djamel Belmadi’s team undefeated.
Throughout the year, the authorities adopted a new approach aimed at broadening the horizons of Algerian sports, including public companies acquiring some local clubs and rapidly developing the administrative and managerial aspects of these clubs.
A significant change at the highest level of local football occurred with the election of Walid Sadi as the new president of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), succeeding Djahid Zefizef. Additionally, Algerian clubs returned to the international stage, with Union of Algiers clinching two continental titles, a first in the team’s history.
In team sports, Algeria shone during the Arab Games hosted last summer, successfully organizing major events with world-class facilities.
Walid Sadi at the Helm of FAF
The election of Walid Sadi as the new FAF president was among the major sports events in 2023. Officially inaugurated on September 21, Sadi replaced the former president, Djahid Zefizef.
Sadi’s election saw the participation of 82 out of 97 members, securing 76 votes. He pledged to unite Algerian football and resolve existing disputes, with a comprehensive electoral program aimed at generating new financial resources, supporting national teams, and developing women’s, university, and beach football.
Public Companies Financing Local Clubs
In 2023, several public companies acquired stakes in local clubs, a decision by the authorities to free clubs from accumulated debts and steer towards genuine sports reform.
Sonelgaz acquired the majority of ES Sétif shares, while Mobilis took over more than 75% of JS Kabylie’s shares, aiming to make the team professional. The ownership of MC Oran also transferred to Sonatrach’s subsidiary, Hyproc, with high expectations from the fans.
Reverse Migration to the Local Championship
Notably, in 2023, several veteran international players joined the national championship, like Raïs M’Bolhi, Adlène Guedioura, Youssef Belaïli, and Jamal Belamri. This recruitment has the potential to elevate the performance of local teams and the overall championship standard.
CHAN 2023: A Spectacular Organization
Algeria successfully hosted the CHAN, receiving praise from the African Football Confederation. The event, organized across multiple renovated stadiums, demonstrated Algeria’s capacity as a regional and continental leader in sports event management.
Arab Games 2023: Further Proof of Algeria’s Excellence in Organizing Major Events
The Arab Games 2023 in Algeria, involving over 2000 athletes in 20 disciplines, were a resounding success. Algeria topped the medals table, reaffirming its organizational capabilities in major sporting events.
Union of Algiers Reigns Over Africa
Union of Algiers marked its return to the podium with two unique continental titles, the African Confederation Cup and the African Super Cup, asserting its presence in African football.
MC Algiers: A Resurgence
MC Algiers had a strong start in the 2023/2024 national championship, leading with a significant points difference. The team is on track to win the championship, absent from their collection since 2010.
National Team: Undefeated in 2023
The national team concluded 2023 undefeated, with seven victories and three draws, showcasing strength and consistency.
Tragedy Strikes Algerian Football
A tragic bus accident involving MC El Bayadh on their way to a match resulted in fatalities and injuries, leading to a temporary suspension of football competitions in the country.
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