Mahmoud Banna’s retirement sparks controversy in Egypt’s refereeing community

Mahmoud Banna’s recent retirement has sent shockwaves through Egyptian football, after the respected referee issued a heartfelt plea to President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.

In his statement, Banna described the crisis facing domestic referees, criticizing the heavy reliance on foreign experts and claiming that Egyptian talent is being sidelined with little technical benefit.

He lamented, “When the paths became blocked and the Egyptian referee found no one to listen,” and quoted the President’s words about repeatedly hiring foreign coaches for Egypt’s national team: “Why do you bring in foreigners to coach, and the results stay the same?” Banna warned that the same mistake is happening in refereeing.

He further accused the current head of the referees’ committee, Oscar Ruiz, of spending most of his time outside the country, while earning a substantial salary. Banna insisted, “The Egyptian referee is qualified and internationally recognized.”

In response, the Egyptian Football Federation stated it is investigating Banna’s and Sami Helhal’s complaints, promising more transparency and updating referee selection criteria. As tensions grow, local referees hope Banna’s appeal leads to fairer opportunities and recognition for Egyptian officials.