Egypt and France have signed a historic partnership to develop handball, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between the two countries in the sport. The agreement, signed on September 28, 2026, aims to enhance the performance of national teams, improve coaching and refereeing, and exchange expertise and training camps. The partnership, which will run until 2028, was signed in the presence of Hassan Mustafa, President of the International Handball Federation, and other officials from both countries.
The partnership is a culmination of efforts by the Egyptian Handball Federation, led by Khaled Fathy, to seek out new opportunities for collaboration and development in the sport. Fathy's visit to France earlier this year laid the groundwork for the partnership, which was further solidified during the visit of Philippe Bana, President of the French Handball Federation, to Egypt. The agreement paves the way for joint programs and cooperation in various areas, including national teams, coaching, and infrastructure development.
The partnership focuses on several key areas, including exchanging expertise and information on technical aspects of the game, organizing joint training camps and friendly matches, and promoting cooperation between Egyptian and French national teams. The agreement also provides for the exchange of coaches, players, and officials, as well as joint participation in international and continental tournaments. This cooperation aims to provide new opportunities for Egyptian handball players to gain experience and improve their skills.
The partnership extends beyond players and national teams to include coaches, managers, and referees. The agreement provides for cooperation in training and qualifying coaches, managers, and referees, as well as exchanging expertise and training methods. This aspect of the partnership aims to enhance the skills of Egyptian coaches and referees, enabling them to improve their performance and contribute to the development of handball in Egypt.
Another key area of cooperation is the development of infrastructure and sports facilities. Egypt will benefit from France's experience in designing, operating, and managing specialized handball facilities, including the "Maison du Handball" project. This cooperation aims to support Egypt's plans to develop handball infrastructure and improve the overall standard of the sport in the country.
The partnership also covers other areas, including beach handball, wheelchair handball, and related disciplines. The agreement provides for cooperation in organizing joint tournaments and events, particularly in youth and junior sectors. Additionally, the partnership involves exchanging knowledge on regulations and working methods, as well as benefiting from French experience in managing and developing the sport.
The historic partnership between Egypt and France is expected to have a significant impact on the development of handball in Egypt. With its focus on cooperation, expertise exchange, and infrastructure development, the agreement provides a solid foundation for improving the performance of Egyptian national teams and enhancing the overall standard of handball in the country. The partnership is a testament to the commitment of both countries to promoting handball and fostering cooperation in the sport.
Key points
- The partnership aims to improve national teams, coaches, and infrastructure in Egyptian handball.
- The agreement provides for exchanging expertise, training camps, and cooperation in various areas, including national teams, coaching, and infrastructure development.
- The partnership covers several areas, including beach handball, wheelchair handball, and related disciplines.
