Sorrow has engulfed Algeria’s sports community following the heartbreaking tragedy in the Oued El Harrach area of the capital, where a bus crash on Saturday night claimed 18 lives, including that of young referee Marouane Kassimi, one of the most promising figures in Algerian football officiating.

Kassimi’s sudden passing in this tragic accident has left a deep mark on the hearts of his loved ones and colleagues, especially as he was seen as a rising star with a bright future in the Algerian professional league.

“Preparations for a Memorial Service”

The Algerian Football Federation expressed its profound sadness in an official statement, stressing that this loss is not only that of his family but of the entire refereeing and sporting community in Algeria. The statement read: “With great sorrow, we received the news of the death of federal referee Marouane Kassimi, following the tragic bus accident in Oued El Harrach. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his dear family and to all his colleagues in the refereeing sector.”

The Referees’ Committee also mourned his passing and announced preparations for a memorial service to honor him on the day of his funeral, scheduled for Sunday.

This tragedy did not only claim 18 lives but also left deep wounds among the families and friends of the victims, while 23 others continue to receive treatment, with prayers across the country for their speedy recovery.