By Oluwatobiloba Kumoye
A key and prominent figure in the Algerian Athletics Federation (AAF), Dr. Hafed Mohamed Amine, has attributed Team Algeria’s subdued performance at the Islamic Solidarity Games to what he described as “poorly timed scheduling.”
He made this statement during an exclusive interview with FIRST ZEALMEDIACAST BLOG’s Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye, emphasizing that the timing of the Games collided with a crucial preparation window for Algeria’s elite athletes, a clash that significantly affected the team’s strength and participation.
He stated that many of the country’s top performers were unavailable because they were deep in preparations for major international competitions.
“This edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games was challenging for the Algerian Athletics Federation because the dates selected were not suitable,” he said. “The competition took place during a key preparation period for most elite athletes, and only a small number were available to attend. As a result, the overall level of the athletics events was quite average.”
Dr. Amine, who led the country’s delegation to the Solidarity Games, added that the team’s reduced size was a direct consequence of the scheduling conflict.
“Considering the very small size of our delegation, and the absence of many of our top-performing athletes who were preparing for our world championship performance in Tokyo, the impact was clear,” he stressed.
Despite the constraints, Dr. Amine, who previously led Team Algeria to the CAA U-18/U-20 Championships in Abeokuta, Ogun Statem, expressed satisfaction with the team’s output in Saudi Arabia.
“The Solidarity Games remain an important opportunity for our athletes to represent Algeria and strengthen sporting ties among participating countries. Despite the constraints, we are proud to have taken part and honoured our national call-up. The results align with our expectations.”
Team Algeria finished with 5 gold, 8 silver and 21 bronze medals, a performance he described as commendable given the circumstances.
“Under these conditions, this is a respectable achievement. Our athletes showed determination and professionalism, and we are satisfied with their efforts.”
Dr. Amine called on organizers of future editions to address the scheduling problem and ensure athletes can perform at their peak.
“For the next edition, the athletics community can expect a stronger and more complete Algerian team — provided the event is scheduled at a more appropriate time. Our goal is to bring our elite athletes, raise the competitive level, and aim for a bigger medal tally.
“We hope the next Games will be organized at a more favourable period so Team Algeria can participate with its full potential and achieve stronger results. We will also focus on improving preparation, fostering young talent, and coordinating better with organizers so our athletes can give their best.”
He concluded by emphasizing that the federation’s immediate priority is to sustain momentum ahead of upcoming continental and international competitions while deepening athlete development structures.
