Egyptian businessman Yehia al-Koumi Egyptian businessman Yehia al-Koumi has been a controversial figure in both the sporting and business worlds, whether before or after the January 25 revolution. Koumi, a former chairman of the Ismaily club, the third most popular football club in Egypt after Ahly and Zamaled, was interviewed by Arabstoday, He talked about his intention in bidding again for the laeding seat in Ismaily in the managing board elections planned in August, and he also revealed for whom he will vote in the run-off round in Egypt's presidential elections.
Arabstoday:  First, is it certain that you will be running for the chairmanship position in Ismaily?
Yes indeed, I submitted my papers to the electoral committee last Wednesday, but the submission date was delayed until August by the National Council for Sports.
Arabstoday: So how do you assess the new date?
I think it is better than the previous date, especially as the new one comes after the end of the presidential elections, so I could have a better vision about the political conditions in the country.
Arabstoday: Do you intend to make a single bid for the elections, or would you head a list of candidates for board membership?
I'm trying to set up a coalition list for the board membership, from figures who are well known for their love and loyalty to Ismaily.
Arabstoday: As a former chairman of the club, you must be aware about the financial crisis suffered by the club, do you have fresh ideas to solve this problem?
In the event that I'm elected as a chairman, I will work in turning Ismaily into a shareholding company with a capital of one billion EGP ($ 166 million). The government will own 50 percent of the shares, while the other 50 percent will be owned by the fans. I think that this is the best financial structure for Ismaily.
Arabstoday: Do you fear that negative views about your second period as a chairman of the club could limit your chances in the forthcoming elections?
No, because this period was surrounded by very bad conditions, as we were not offered any chance to work as a board. However, if the right atmosphere is granted I'm sure we will deliver good results as what was achieved in my first period.
Arabstoday: After the announcement of  Othman Attiya, the current Deputy Chairman of the club that he will be running for the chairman's position, have you considered withdrawing?
With full respect to all the current board members, I will not withdraw unless a member of the Othman family is bidding for the elections, because they are the only ones I can trust in regards of their leadership of the club.
Arabstoday: So what about the prospect of businessman Hammad Moussa being nominated in the elections?
Yes, I may consider withdrawing if Moussa is nominated as well.
Arabstoday: How do you assess your chances of winning?
I think I have a big chance, especially taking into account my previous success, and my achievement in building a team who can compete for titles.
Arabstoday: What are your ambitions for the team in your first season as a chairman, in case you win?
I will work to add more quality to the team in order to be able to compete for trophies, similar to what happened in 2006. I will also work to finish the construction projects of the club's social headquarters.
Arabstoday: Would you sign some big names to reinforce the team?
I believe the club is rich in talent, and there is no need to sign anybody else.
Arabstoday: And what about the future of the current manager, Sabri al-Menyawi and his assistants?
Sabri is a great coach and his assistants are more than qualified, but I have different strategies that may need different people.
Arabstoday: Do you have plans to re-sign the Dutch manager Marc Vota, who had a successful season with the team in 2006?
I may sign Vota, or any other acclaimed foreign manager of proven quality to lead the team in next season.
Arabstoday: Who would you vote for in the run-off round of the presidential elections?
I will vote for Ahmad Shafiq because I don't want the brotherhood to rule Egypt.