BVA Suspends Nasser Anan and Referee for 2 Seasons

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

The Bahrain Volleyball Association (BVA) has announced disciplinary sanctions following a serious incident during the senior men’s volleyball match between Muharraq Club and Dar Kulaib Club in the 2025–26 Isa Bin Rashid League, held on January 30 at Isa Bin Rashid Hall.

The Board of Directors decided to suspend national team star Nasser Anan for two seasons (2025–2026 and 2026–2027) and fined Muharraq Club BHD 500. Referee Jaafar Al Muallim was also suspended for two seasons and relieved of his membership in the referees committee, reflecting the Federation’s zero-tolerance approach to misconduct on and off the court. The decisions were based on reports from the match observer, the referees, and competitions committees, citing Article 4-8 of the approved competition regulations regarding assaults inside the hall, with Article 7-12 allowing the Board to adjust penalties according to circumstances.

The sanctions follow reports that Anan physically confronted the second referee and struck an official while being restrained by teammates and Dar Kulaib players. The inclusion of the referee in the disciplinary measures highlights the severity of the incidents and the BVA’s commitment to accountability for all parties involved.

In a statement, the BVA expressed “deep regret and condemnation” of the incident, affirming its “complete rejection of such unsportsmanlike conduct, which contradicts the principles of fair competition and mutual respect.” The Federation also vowed disciplinary and legal action and emphasized the need for all clubs, players, staff, and fans to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship.

Muharraq Club similarly condemned the actions, stressing that they do not reflect the club’s values or history, and expressed full confidence in the BVA to take measures to prevent a recurrence.

These decisions highlight the BVA’s commitment to maintaining discipline, protecting the integrity of competitions, and preserving the reputation of volleyball in Bahrain.