Former Egyptian Football Association (EFA) president Major General Youssef El-Dahshoury Harb has died after a distinguished career devoted to the growth of football in Egypt.
Harb leaves behind a lasting legacy that spanned decades, serving Egyptian football both as a player and an administrator. His passing has prompted tributes from football officials, clubs and members of the sporting community, who have recognised his immense contribution to the game.
Current Egyptian FA president Hany Abu Rida expressed deep sorrow following Harb’s death, paying tribute to his outstanding service and dedication to Egyptian football.
Throughout his career, Harb played a key role in developing the sport and strengthening the structures of the national game. His leadership helped guide Egyptian football through significant periods of growth, earning him widespread respect across the football community.
One of the defining achievements of his administrative career was his record as the longest-serving president of the Egyptian Football Association, having led the organisation across four separate terms.
His first spell as EFA president began on October 4, 1992, when he was appointed to the role, serving until October 1993. He was subsequently elected for a second term, remaining in office until June 1996.
Harb later returned for a third stint by appointment on August 3, 1999, serving until August 2, 2000. He was then elected for a fourth term on October 27, 2000, remaining president until March 2004 and cementing his place as one of the most influential administrators in Egyptian football history.
During his time in office, Harb oversaw several important developments within Egyptian football, contributing to improvements in governance, competitions and football infrastructure. His commitment to the sport earned him recognition as one of the country’s most respected football leaders.
Egyptian giants Al Ahly were among the first to pay tribute. Club president Mahmoud El Khatib, together with the board of directors and executive management, expressed profound sadness at Harb’s passing and extended condolences to his family.
The club described his death as a significant loss to Egyptian sport, acknowledging his invaluable contributions to football and the lasting impact he made throughout his lifetime.
Before embarking on his administrative career, Harb represented both Tersana SC and the Egyptian national team as a player, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to the sport.
His passing marks the end of an era in Egyptian football, but his legacy remains firmly embedded in the history of the game. From his achievements on the pitch to his record-setting leadership of the Egyptian Football Association, Youssef El-Dahshoury Harb played a pivotal role in shaping modern Egyptian football.
As tributes continue to pour in, he will be remembered as a dedicated servant of the game, a respected leader and one of the architects of Egyptian football’s development.
