Sports media personality Ahmed Shobeir has revealed Zamalek’s position regarding the appointment of a foreign refereeing team for the upcoming derby against Al Ahly.
The match is scheduled for October 11, 2026, at Cairo International Stadium as part of the sixth round of the 2026-27 Egyptian Premier League season.
Zamalek’s Position on Foreign Referees
Shobeir said he contacted Zamalek officials to understand why the club had not submitted an official request for foreign referees for the derby.
According to the response he received, Zamalek does not consider the nationality of the refereeing team an issue and is prepared to accept Egyptian, Arab or foreign referees.
The club’s position is that the identity of the referees is not a priority ahead of the highly anticipated encounter.
Financial Factors Behind Zamalek’s Decision
Shobeir also explained that Zamalek’s current financial circumstances make it difficult for the club to cover the additional costs associated with bringing in a foreign refereeing team.
Appointing referees from outside Egypt requires additional expenses, which contributed to the club’s decision not to submit an official request.
Al Ahly Expected to Handle Foreign Referee Request
Shobeir added that Zamalek officials are aware that Al Ahly are expected to handle the process of requesting foreign referees for the derby.
Despite this, Zamalek have no objection to the nationality of the refereeing team and would accept Egyptian, Arab or foreign officials.
Al Ahly vs Zamalek Derby Date
The Al Ahly-Zamalek derby will take place on October 11, 2026, at Cairo International Stadium in the sixth round of the 2026-27 Egyptian Premier League.
The fixture is expected to attract significant attention due to its importance for both clubs early in the new league season.
When is the Al Ahly vs Zamalek derby?
The match is scheduled for October 11, 2026, at Cairo International Stadium.
What is Zamalek’s position on foreign referees?
Zamalek are willing to accept Egyptian, Arab or foreign referees.
Why has Zamalek not requested foreign referees?
According to Ahmed Shobeir, the club’s financial circumstances make the additional costs difficult to cover.
Will Al Ahly request foreign referees?
Shobeir said Zamalek officials expect Al Ahly to handle the request for foreign referees.
