Khalaf Al Habtoor denies reports of bid to buy Zamalek

Emirati businessman Khalaf Al Habtoor has rejected reports that he wants to buy Egyptian club Zamalek or invest in its football company.

Al Habtoor said there had been no financial offer, negotiations or agreement relating to the club, bringing an end to speculation reported by some media outlets and circulated on social media.

He wrote on his official Facebook page: “I followed with surprise what has once again been circulated in some media outlets and on social media about my intention to buy Zamalek or submit financial offers to invest in its football company.”

He added: “I would like to make clear that these reports are entirely untrue and have no basis whatsoever. I have not made any offer to buy the club or invest in it, nor have I entered into any negotiations on this matter. Everything published about alleged sums of money or supposed agreements has no connection with the truth.”

Al Habtoor said he held Zamalek and its supporters in high regard and remained interested in supporting sport and young people in Egypt.

However, he stressed that backing sporting activities was separate from investing in and running football clubs.

“I am a lover of sport and hold Zamalek, a historic club, as well as all Egyptian sports clubs and their supporters, in the highest respect and appreciation,” he said.

“I have also always been keen to support Egyptian young people and encourage their achievements. I have demonstrated this in practice through our initiatives supporting sport, including honouring the Egypt national football team after its commendable performance at the World Cup.”

He continued: “But supporting sport and young people is one thing, while investing in and managing football clubs is something entirely different. I have no investments in this field, nor do I claim to have the necessary expertise to manage and develop sports clubs, and I have no plans to enter it.”

The comments came after claims that Al Habtoor had shown interest in acquiring Zamalek or taking a stake in the company responsible for its football operations.

In his closing remarks, he urged media organisations to check information carefully before publishing reports connected with his name, projects or investments, and not to present inaccurate information as fact.

He concluded: “All my love and appreciation to the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt and its dear people. I wish Zamalek and all Egyptian clubs continued progress and success, and I wish Egyptian sport further achievements and excellence.”