Q How do you think the revolution has changed sports over the past year?
A If by ‘sport’ we mean football, as it is [generally understood] in Egypt, then the revolution and the absence of police changed ‘sport’ into chaos. Regarding [other games], no big changes so far, as everything is going exactly the same with its very underdeveloped style, options and organization.

Q In what way do think the next government will affect sports?
A I don’t think that sports will be a priority for any upcoming party, as I didn’t see it mentioned in any of the parliamentary election campaigns or talked about by anyone on the big talk shows, as if it’s not important or as if it doesn’t help build the character of future leaders.

The Parliament is supposed to represent the voices of all Egyptians […] I think that sports aren’t going to be affected that much by these recent events, but I hope that the Parliament will at least pay attention to youth and children who don’t have access to private clubs and maybe create free clubs for them or some places to practice sports.

Q With the sweeping win of Islamist parties in Parliament, how do you think this will affect sports, especially swimming, gymnastics and so on?
A I doubt that they know there are other organized sports in Egypt apart from football, but with religion in power most probably we will have to say bye-bye to women in any sport.

For example, religious groups will argue that swimming suits are haram (forbidden in Islam), and most probably any running or body movement will be seen as provocative. Even if one thinks it’s haram, I believe it’s a personal choice that every family, woman or girl should make and not force someone else just because I can.

After all, religion is between every individual and God. Even back in the Prophet Muhammad’s [PBUH] time, he didn’t force anyone to wear the hijab, it was a personal choice.

Q What is the country Egypt should model when it comes to sports management?
A We need to have a target for Egypt’s sports, a direction and a destination to work hard to reach and then follow the best model in this specific field.

For example, if we want to be [covered on] the religious side then it is the Iran model. If we aim for sports tourism then follow Turkey.

If we want to excel in a specific sport like football, follow Brazil. We have to have a clear vision [of] where we are headed so we can follow a scientific methodology and specific, clear steps to reach there — so we don’t end up in the middle of nowhere, like we do most of the time.

Q How could Egypt be better in sports?
A For us to move forward in sports, the heads [must come together on] a specific direction and vision. We need to headhunt the right people with the right vision in sports governing federations, clubs and ministries, so they can lead Egypt’s sports to a better place.

We need to have more organization in all sports and use technology more, especially in tournaments.

We also need to pay attention to other sports and not only football. If you take a closer look, you will find the best players in Egypt excelling in other sports such as squash, handball, basketball and swimming, not football, but football gets the only spotlight. et