Managing the Egyptian Football Association has been difficult. Egyptian soccer fans have endured serious upheaval, earning the sympathy of football supporters around the world.
For people living in stable democracies, the disruption of football by political events can be difficult to imagine. Postponements caused by bad weather are very different from those caused by unrest.
Sport is commonly regarded as something that should remain separate from politics. Major international competitions bring nations and their supporters together through football.
In 2013, Egypt's domestic league was cancelled for the second consecutive season. The latest suspension followed civil unrest affecting parts of the country.
After President Mohamed Morsi was removed from power, the Egyptian Premier League was suspended indefinitely. Zamalek and Al Ahly were declared champions of their respective groups.
The previous season had also been cancelled following the Port Said stadium tragedy in 2012. After Al-Masry defeated Al Ahly 3-1, violence erupted between supporters. Seventy-four people died and hundreds were injured.
Many spectators attempted to escape the disorder, but closed stadium gates prevented them from leaving safely. Some were crushed while trying to flee.
Two senior police officials, including an officer responsible for security and another responsible for the stadium gates, received fifteen-year prison sentences. The punishment could not undo the suffering experienced by the victims' families.