Hossam Hassan contract expires as Egypt head coach ahead of 2026 World Cup

Tharwat Sweilem, First Deputy Chairman of the Youth and Sports Committee in the Egyptian House of Representatives, has disclosed that Egypt national team head coach Hossam Hassan informed lawmakers that his contract with the Egyptian Football Association expired in February, and he is currently continuing his duties without a formal agreement.

Sweilem made the revelation during an appearance on ON E TV following a parliamentary session held on Tuesday, where the national team’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup were discussed in detail.

According to him, the session brought together key football and government figures, including Youth and Sports Minister Gawhar Nabil, Egyptian Football Association president Hani Abu Rida, and national team coach Hossam Hassan.

Sweilem explained that Abu Rida opened the meeting by stressing the importance of ensuring proper preparation for the national team ahead of the World Cup.

Hossam Hassan, meanwhile, delivered a lengthy presentation on his plans and confirmed that his contract had already expired.

“He said his contract ended in February and that he is now working without a contract, but remains fully committed to continuing his job,” Sweilem stated.

He added that questions were raised over why the contract had not been renewed, describing the situation as unusual given the national team’s importance.

He also noted Hassan’s strong emotional attachment to the role, quoting him as saying the national team “is his life.”

Sweilem concluded that despite the contractual uncertainty, there appears to be no immediate intention to separate the coach from his position ahead of the World Cup campaign.

Egypt have been drawn in Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran in the tournament hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.