Zamalek have reportedly issued a strong warning to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), threatening to withdraw from this season’s CAF Champions League should plans to expand the competition and include additional teams potentially their fierce rivals Al Ahly.
The Cairo giants are firmly opposed to any restructuring that would alter the current qualification framework, particularly if it paves the way for Al Ahly’s participation under revised entry criteria. The club views such a move as undermining the integrity and sporting merit of the competition.
Zamalek’s stance is rooted in concerns that expanding the number of teams could dilute the competitiveness of Africa’s premier club tournament while also creating what they perceive as preferential pathways for certain clubs. Their position reflects long-standing tensions between Egypt’s two most decorated sides, whose rivalry extends beyond domestic competition into continental politics.
While CAF has yet to make a final decision on the proposed changes, discussions around expanding African club competitions have gained traction in recent months as part of broader efforts to increase commercial appeal and global visibility.
Zamalek’s potential withdrawal would represent a significant escalation, raising the stakes for CAF as it weighs reform against the risk of alienating one of the continent’s most prominent clubs. Such a move could also have wider implications for the tournament’s credibility and fan engagement.
For now, CAF remains silent on the matter, but with the new season approaching, pressure is mounting to resolve the dispute before it casts a shadow over the competition.
