Naseeb Qabbani, director of the company organizing the Damascus International Basketball Tournament, has revealed that the organizers are considering not inviting Zamalek for the next two seasons after the club withdrew from the current edition.
Qabbani said there is an internal proposal to leave Zamalek out of the tournament for at least the next two editions, explaining that the club's withdrawal had a direct impact on the event.
Organizers Regret Zamalek's Withdrawal
Qabbani said the organizers had hoped to see Zamalek participate, particularly because of the long-standing relationship between the tournament and the Egyptian club.
He added that the organizers had been fully prepared to host Zamalek and described the withdrawal as disappointing, noting its impact on the tournament's preparations.
Financial and Sporting Losses
The tournament director said Zamalek's withdrawal caused significant financial losses for the organizers, particularly in connection with flights, accommodation and hotel arrangements prepared for the team.
He also pointed to sporting losses resulting from Zamalek's absence, given the club's expected contribution to the competition.
Qabbani stressed that the organizers had been ready to welcome the Zamalek delegation and that the withdrawal affected the tournament on both financial and sporting levels.
Zamalek Cited Administrative Reasons
Regarding the reason for the withdrawal, Qabbani said Zamalek informed the organizers that the decision was linked to administrative matters involving security approvals.
He explained that the tournament had already made preparations for the club's participation, meaning that its absence resulted in additional financial and sporting consequences for the organizers.
Other Reasons Discussed on Social Media
Qabbani also addressed other explanations that had circulated on social media regarding Zamalek's withdrawal.
He said he had seen claims suggesting that financial issues and disagreements with the team's players may have played a role. However, he stressed that the reason communicated directly to the tournament organizers was related to administrative procedures and security approvals.
Zamalek's Future at the Damascus Tournament
Following the organizers' latest statements, Zamalek's participation in the Damascus International Basketball Tournament over the next two seasons is now under review.
The final decision will depend on the tournament organizers and their plans for future editions, following the controversy surrounding Zamalek's withdrawal and the losses reported by the event's management.
Why did Zamalek withdraw from the Damascus Basketball Tournament?
The organizers said Zamalek informed them that its withdrawal was related to administrative matters involving security approvals.
Will Zamalek participate next season?
The organizers are considering not inviting Zamalek for at least the next two seasons.
What losses did the tournament suffer?
The organizers reported financial losses related to flights, accommodation and hotels, as well as sporting losses caused by Zamalek's absence.
Were other reasons reported for the withdrawal?
Qabbani said social media reports mentioned financial issues and disagreements with players, while Zamalek officially cited administrative and security-related matters to the organizers.
Was the tournament ready to host Zamalek?
Yes. Qabbani said the organizers were fully prepared to host the club and had arranged travel and accommodation plans
