Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club have elected Ibrahim Al-Asri as the club’s new president following the resignation of Hicham Ait Mena, ushering in a new chapter for one of Africa’s most successful football institutions.
Al-Asri emerged victorious in the presidential election held during Wydad’s Ordinary General Assembly for the 2025/26 sporting season, defeating Yassine Saadallah in the second and decisive round of voting.
The newly elected president secured 72 votes, while Saadallah received 56, earning the mandate to lead the Casablanca-based club.
Two-round victory
Al-Asri had already established himself as the frontrunner in the opening round of voting, collecting 62 votes ahead of Saadallah’s 43, while Anas Karami was eliminated after finishing third with 27 votes.
With no outright winner in the first round, the election proceeded to a runoff, where Al-Asri secured a comfortable victory.
New era begins
Al-Asri takes over at a pivotal time for Wydad following the resignation of Ait Mena’s board.
His administration is expected to focus on rebuilding the club’s sporting project, strengthening the squad and restoring Wydad’s status among the continent’s leading clubs after a challenging period.
The new president also faces the task of ensuring greater stability off the pitch while guiding the club back into contention for domestic and continental honours.
High expectations
With one of Africa’s largest and most passionate fan bases, expectations on Al-Asri will be immediate.
The new president inherits a club with a rich history and an ambitious support demanding success in the Botola Pro and the CAF Champions League.
His leadership will now be closely watched as Wydad begin a new era under fresh administration with the aim of returning the “Red Castle” to the summit of African football.
