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Rachid Mekhloufi, football legend and symbol of Algeria’s struggle for independence, has died at the age of 88, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune announced on Friday 8 November, paying tribute to this former player of the Algerian Front team of National Liberation (FLN). the Algerian war. The former striker, who played for Saint-Etienne between 1954 and 1958 and then between 1962 and 1968, lived between France and Tunisia, according to informed sources.
President Tebboune “I learn with great sadness the news of the death of the legendary Algerian footballer Rachid Mekhloufi, FLN player, national team coach and former president of the Algerian Football Federation”he pointed to the Algerian presidency, without providing details on the location of his death. The president of the Algerian Football Federation, Walid Sadi, sent his condolences “Very saddened by the family of the deceased and the great family of Algerian football”.
“This pioneer born in Sétif in 1936 leaves an invaluable legacy that transcends sport, combining football passion and patriotic commitment”underlines the site FennecFootballevoking a “legend of Algerian football and symbol of the struggle for independence”.
“My example, my model, my teacher”
Rachid Mekhloufi began his career in Algeria before joining AS Saint-Etienne in 1954, where he became an exceptional striker, leading a team in full development which he accompanied to its first success. He became champion of France in 1957 with the Greens at just 21 years old, the first title for the Saint-Etienne club at the end of a season in which he had scored 25 goals, and wore the shirt of the French team four times, from October 1956 and December 1957.
But in April 1958, in the midst of the Algerian War, he suddenly left France, accompanied by other Algerian players, to join the National Liberation Front (FLN) team, created to promote the fight for independence. “Through unofficial but symbolically powerful matches, this team becomes an instrument of sports diplomacy, drawing international attention to the fight” for independence, remembers FennecFootball. The APS agency also welcomed it “the glorious FLN team” who had “makes the voice of the National Revolution heard throughout the world”.
“Saint-Etienne’s tears flow. A great man, an immense footballer, has passed away. Rachid Mekhloufi is no longer with us, but his legacy will never leave us.”AS Saint-Etienne reacted on its social networks, accompanying its message with a black and white photo of the player surrounded by balls. In a press release, the Saint-Etienne club also talks about the commitment of Makhloufi and his team “Extraordinary personality on the green rectangle certainly, but also in his life as an engaged citizen”.
🖤 A rare talent, a committed citizen, a legendary green…
Rachid Mekhloufi, football esthete, died on Friday 8 November.
— AS Saint-Étienne (@ASSEofficiel) November 8, 2024
“He was an ardent defender of a country and a cause that were dear to him and for which he did not hesitate, one evening in April 1958, to flee, hiding in Aronde through Switzerland, to reach Tunisia. Preferring an ideal over his career which would undoubtedly have seen him set foot on the Swedish pitches at the 1958 World Cup.the club continues. “He was a great player, my example, my model, my professional teacher”another Saint-Etienne legend, Jean-Michel Larqué, figure of the next generation, reacted with emotion at the RMC microphone.
After independence in 1962, Mekhloufi resumed his career, first at Servette and then again at Saint-Etienne, winning three new French titles with the Greens (1964, 1967 and 1968), before becoming captain of the first Algerian national team.
Time.news Interview: Remembering Rachid Mekhloufi
Editor: Good afternoon, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Nadia Benali, a sports historian and expert on Algerian football. We’re here to discuss the life and legacy of Rachid Mekhloufi, a football legend, who sadly passed away on November 8th at the age of 88. Dr. Benali, thank you for being with us.
Dr. Benali: Thank you for having me. It’s an important moment to reflect on Mekhloufi’s remarkable contributions.
Editor: Mekhloufi began his career in Algeria before moving to AS Saint-Etienne in 1954. What were his significant achievements with the club during that time?
Dr. Benali: Mekhloufi’s impact at AS Saint-Etienne was profound. He became the French champion in 1957, leading the team as a prolific striker and scoring 25 goals that season—an impressive feat for someone so young. He was not just a player; he was a key figure in establishing Saint-Etienne’s reputation as a powerhouse in French football.
Editor: His journey took a remarkable turn in 1958 when he left France to join the National Liberation Front (FLN) team during the Algerian War. Why was this decision so significant?
Dr. Benali: That decision was monumental, not just for Mekhloufi but for the entire narrative of sports in Algeria. By joining the FLN team, he transformed from a stellar athlete into a symbol of national pride and resistance. These matches played by the FLN team weren’t just about football; they were a means of raising international awareness for Algeria’s fight for independence. Mekhloufi and his teammates used their talent to draw attention to their cause, which was extraordinary.
Editor: President Abdelmadjid Tebboune expressed his sadness over Mekhloufi’s death, referring to him as a “legendary Algerian footballer.” How has Mekhloufi been perceived in both Algeria and the football world?
Dr. Benali: Mekhloufi is revered in Algeria not only for his footballing skills but also for his patriotism. He embodies the spirit of a generation that fought for freedom. He bridged the sports world with the struggle for independence, making him a national hero. In the broader football community, he is remembered as a pioneer who used his platform to advocate for rights and a voice for his people. His legacy transcends sport.
Editor: Considering his dual impact on sport and society, how do you think Mekhloufi’s story resonates with current and future generations of athletes?
Dr. Benali: Mekhloufi serves as an inspiration for athletes today, illustrating the power of sport beyond the field. His commitment to a cause, even at the height of his career, shows that athletes can be change-makers. This lesson is particularly relevant today as athletes increasingly engage in social movements and use their influence to address injustices. Mekhloufi’s legacy encourages current and future athletes to think about their role in society.
Editor: AS Saint-Etienne expressed profound sorrow at his passing, stating that “his legacy will never leave us.” What do you think that legacy consists of?
Dr. Benali: Mekhloufi’s legacy is multifaceted—it includes his exceptional talent on the pitch, his role in shaping Algerian football history, and his courageous stand for independence. He epitomizes the ideal of using one’s skills for a greater purpose, embodying patriotism and dedication to his people. This blend of sport and activism creates a legacy that remains deeply embedded in the heart of Algerian culture and serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Benali, for your insights into the life of Rachid Mekhloufi. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire many in the world of sports and beyond.
Dr. Benali: Thank you. It’s essential to share these stories, as they remind us of the powerful intersection between sports and society.