FIFA opens disciplinary case against Egypt coach Hossam Hassan

FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan over comments he made before and after his side’s 2026 World Cup match against Argentina, with a ruling now expected.

The world governing body is investigating whether a series of public statements made by the former Egypt striker breached its disciplinary regulations, according to case documents made available through FIFA’s Legal Portal.

The disciplinary file has been opened following the Argentina-Egypt fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and includes an investigative report outlining the allegations under review.

What FIFA is investigating

Among the remarks cited in the case are Hassan’s public expressions of support for Palestine, as well as claims that Argentina benefited from preferential treatment during the tournament because of captain Lionel Messi, commercial considerations and the South American side’s status as reigning world champions.

FIFA is also examining his allegations that Egypt was deliberately disadvantaged, that both external and internal factors influenced the outcome of the match, and his assertion that there was “no justice” in the tournament.

The investigation further covers his accusation that the match failed to uphold FIFA’s principles of fair play and respect.

Case enters disciplinary phase

By making the case file and investigative report available on its Legal Portal, FIFA has moved the matter into the formal disciplinary process, allowing the proceedings to be handled under its established legal framework.

The governing body has not yet announced when a verdict will be delivered or what potential sanctions Hassan could face if he is found to have breached its rules.

Possible disciplinary measures under FIFA regulations can range from warnings and fines to suspensions, depending on the nature and severity of any violation established by the disciplinary committee.

Hassan, one of Egypt’s most celebrated football figures and the country’s all-time leading men’s international goalscorer, has been in charge of the national team during a period of heightened scrutiny following the Pharaohs’ World Cup campaign.

FIFA has not released further details beyond the contents of the disciplinary file, and no decision has yet been announced.