Why Is FIFA Not Allowing Egypt to Wear Stars on Their World Cup Jersey?

Just days before Egypt and Mohamed Salah play their first group game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Belgium, world footbal's apex body FIFA has asked the Egyptian Football Association to make changes to their official World Cup jersey. The Pharaohs are one of the most successful African nations of all time in their confederation and have won the prestigious continental tournament, African Cup of Nations (AFCON) seven times in their history.

The Egypt World Cup jersey was displaying the seven stars in order to celebrate this amazing achievement and remind their supporters of their glorious trophy laden past. However, on the international level especially in FIFA competitions, each star on a national team jersey typically represents one FIFA World Cup triumph.

Why Did FIFA Ask Egypt to Make Changes to FIFA World Cup Jersey?

The world football's top body seems to have taken exception to the incorrect use of stars by the Egypt national football team was judged inappropriate on further inspection before they start their group games. Alongside the Egypt World Cup Jersey controversy, Egyptian FA have also been told to remove the gold colour used for the players' names and numbers and use white colour instead. Egypt's kit was officially unveiled by the Egyptian Football Association and Puma almost a month ago.

Which Group Is Egypt Playing In FIFA World Cup 2026?

Egypt are marking their return to the FIFA World Cup stage after missing out on the qualification for the 2022 edition of the tournament. The Pharaohs are placed in Group G of the 2026 edition and will face the likes of Belgium, New Zealand and Iran during the group phase.

Players like Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush are expected to lead the charge as they look to improve on their 1934 showing of making it to the Round of 16 stage.