The 2025/26 Egyptian Premier League is officially set to commence on August 15, 2025, ushering in not just a new season—but a new era in Egyptian football governance. Announced by Ahmed Diab, President of the Egyptian Pro League Association, the league’s early start reflects a strategic recalibration designed to enhance competition integrity, align with international calendars, and elevate Egypt’s status in continental football.
“This season marks a return to professionalism and structural stability,” Diab stated during a closed-door strategy meeting. “The Egyptian Premier League must reflect the standards expected from clubs competing in Africa and beyond.”
The revamped league will feature an expanded 21-club roster, following the temporary suspension of relegation during the 2024–25 campaign. The decision, reached after exhaustive consultations with clubs and regulatory stakeholders, aims to stabilize the competitive ecosystem and avoid mid-season disputes that marred previous seasons.
According to Taha Ezzat, Director of Competitions, the Pro League is working through a phased three-year roadmap:
“This is a carefully structured transition. Starting next season, four teams will be relegated and three promoted. By 2027, the league will return to its optimal size and structure.”
The upcoming season will adopt a hybrid competition format: 20 initial rounds played by all 21 teams, League split into a Championship Group and a Relegation Group, Four teams to be relegated by the season’s end and Traditional home-and-away format maintained during transition.
The Pro League’s reform initiative comes in the aftermath of significant controversies—including the high-profile Al-Ahly vs. Zamalek derby crisis, which prompted widespread calls for regulatory clarity and consistent decision-making.
To this end, the Association has launched an open proposal period ending June 18, inviting clubs to submit feedback and regulatory suggestions. The finalized rules will be publicly disclosed during a press conference scheduled for late June, aimed at reinforcing transparency and institutional trust.
“This consultative process is a vital corrective step,” noted sports governance analyst Dr. Hossam Barakat, said. “We’re finally seeing a shift from ad hoc decision-making to structured, long-term planning.”
- 5 over-age + 3 under-age foreign players per club
- 6 foreign players per match, including at least one under-age player
This framework, officials say, ensures both competitive diversity and talent development, without compromising domestic player opportunities.
Two storied clubs—Wadi Degla and Arab Contractors—have clinched promotion to the top tier, securing their place in the revamped 21-team format. The third promotion spot remains up for grabs, adding a final layer of suspense before the campaign kicks off.
Notably absent from the Pro League’s recent high-level strategy meeting were representatives from Pyramids FC, Zamalek, and Harras El-Hodoud—a development fueling speculation about internal disagreements regarding the structure overhaul. Sources within the Association told MEO that “dialogue remains open with all clubs,” with behind-the-scenes negotiations ongoing.
Egypt’s football transformation comes at a pivotal time. With Al-Ahly’s continued dominance in the CAF Champions League and Zamalek’s resurgence in regional tournaments, the need for a domestically sound, internationally aligned league has never been more urgent.
“This isn’t just about Egyptian football—it’s about Egypt’s place in the global sports economy,” said Nadine Saqr, a Cairo-based sports economist. “A stable, transparent domestic league will enhance broadcasting rights, sponsorship deals, and international competitiveness.”
Looking Ahead: Key Dates & Expectations
June 18 – Deadline for clubs to submit regulation proposals- Late June – Official press conference to reveal 2025–26 rulebook
- August 15 – 2025/26 Egyptian Premier League begins
June 18 – Deadline for clubs to submit regulation proposals
Late June – Official press conference to reveal 2025–26 rulebook
August 15 – 2025/26 Egyptian Premier League beginsThe coming season represents more than a football schedule—it marks the dawn of institutional reform, regulatory modernization, and long-term vision for Egyptian football. Whether this ambitious transition succeeds will depend on stakeholder unity, transparent governance, and continued performance on the pitch.
