Egyptian sports community shocked over death of 45-year-old TV commentator

Egyptian sports fans expressed shock and sadness after Mohammed Al Sbbaai, a sports commentator, was killed in a car accident while driving to his house in Cairo over the weekend.

Egyptian local news reported that the 45-year-old Al Sbbaai was pronounced dead while being transported to hospital.

A longtime staple of Egypt's local football commentary, Al Sbbaai had been hosting sports TV programmes since 1995. Most recently he was working at DMC Sports.

Hours after his death was announced, players and fans stood for a moment of silence in remembrance of Al Sebaai during the Egyptian Premier League match between Al Ahly and El Dakhleya.

The match commentator then gave a short speech saying: "Allow me to speak about a friend of mine and a colleague and a media personality who always worked to please millions of people.

"With all sorrow hearts, we received today the news of the death of our friend and teacher and sports commentator Mohammed Al Sebaai."

During the match, some attendees were seen wearing shirts with the Al Sebaai's picture on it.

On social media as well, fans and friends mourned his death.

Ahmed Shobier, former national goalkeeper and vice-president of the Egyptian Football Association, said in a Tweet that it was “the worst ending for 2018 to lose a dear brother and colleague Mohammed Al Sbbaai”.

Egyptian striker Mido, who played for clubs including Tottenham Hotspur and Middlesbrough during his career, and is now the caretaker manager of Saudi team Al Wehda, said: “I was so saddened to hear the news of the death of our teacher Mohammed Al Sbbaai, he was a decent man who had good relationship with everyone and was an excellent sports commentator”.

A funeral prayer was held Saturday night at Al Jamea' Al Kabeer in Al Sebaai's hometown of El Hagarsa, Al Shraqia province.

His funeral reception was held in the village on Sunday at noon.