World Cup 2026: FIFA strip Egypt of AFCON stars as jersey comes under spotlight ahead of Belgium clash

Samuel Ekow Amoasi Appiah June 15, 2026

Egypt will enter their World Cup opener against Belgium without the seven stars on their jersey that previously celebrated their record Africa Cup of Nations triumphs, after FIFA enforced strict kit regulations ahead of the tournament.

The decision means the Pharaohs have been required to remove the visual tribute to their seven continental titles, with football’s global governing body maintaining that only World Cup victories are permitted to be represented through stars on national team shirts during the competition.

The change has already been implemented, forcing Egypt to present a revised kit for their Group G campaign. They face Belgium in their opening match today, marking the start of a highly anticipated test for Hossam Hassan’s side.

The seven stars had long symbolised Egypt’s dominance in African football, reflecting their status as the most successful nation in Africa Cup of Nations history. However, FIFA regulations override continental symbolism at the World Cup, limiting such markers to achievements on the global stage.

The adjustment is not limited to the badge. Reports indicate that Egypt were also instructed to alter other design elements, including the colour of their shirt numbers, as part of broader compliance requirements for broadcast visibility and uniform standards.

Despite the controversy, Egypt are expected to focus on the pitch, where they will rely heavily on Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush as they attempt to navigate a challenging Group G that also includes Iran and New Zealand.

Their opening test against Belgium sets the tone for what could be a defining group-stage campaign, with Egypt still searching for their first-ever victory in a World Cup finals match.

Kick-off against Belgium marks not only the start of Egypt’s tournament, but also the beginning of a campaign shaped—at least in part—by a uniform change that has reignited debate over how football history is represented on the world stage.