Algeria Postpones League Start in Solidarity with Fire Victims

The Algerian Ministry of Sports announced today, Thursday, the postponement of all national sports events and competitions, in solidarity with the families of the victims of the fires that swept through several provinces in the central and eastern parts of the country, coinciding with the declaration of a national mourning period of three days.

The decision includes the competitions of the professional football league, which was scheduled to kick off today, Thursday, thus officially delaying the start of the 2026-2027 sports season.

The Sports Ministry confirmed in a statement published today its support for the families of the fire victims during this painful time, offering heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathy, wishing mercy for the victims and patience and solace for their loved ones, along with a speedy recovery for the injured.

The ministry stated that the decision to postpone the match comes "as an expression of national solidarity and support for the families of the victims," in line with the President's decision to declare a national mourning period of three days.

In this context, the Ministry of Sports revealed that the national flag will be flown at half-mast across various sports facilities in the country, embodying the spirit of solidarity and loyalty to the victims of this tragedy.

The Professional Football League has announced the postponement of the opening matches of the new season, which were scheduled for August 27, 28, and 29.

The league has set new dates for the first round matches on September 3, 4, and 5, 2026, after they were postponed due to the national mourning declared in the country.

Thus, the kickoff of the new season of the Algerian Professional League is delayed, awaiting the resumption of competitions according to the new date set by the league.