World Cup 2026: Egypt players undergo doping test ahead of Belgium opener

Egypt players have undergone routine anti-doping tests conducted by FIFA at their training camp in Spokane, USA, as preparations intensify ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The expanded 48 team tournament, to be co-hosted across United States, Canada and Mexico will kick-start on Thursday, June 11, 2026.

However, a medical delegation from FIFA visited the team’s camp and collected samples from a number of players selected at random for anti-doping tests.

The procedure forms part of FIFA’s standard monitoring programme during major international tournaments and is designed to ensure compliance with anti-doping regulations and maintain the integrity of the competition.

Players were selected in accordance with FIFA’s approved protocols, with testing conducted under the supervision of the governing body’s medical team.

Such visits are common during World Cup tournaments and can occur without prior notice. FIFA’s anti-doping authorities are empowered to carry out tests at any stage of the competition, including during preparation camps, training periods, and throughout the tournament itself.

The visit comes as Egypt intensify preparations for their World Cup campaign, with the national team aiming to make a strong impression on football’s biggest stage.

The Pharaohs have been based in Spokane as they finalize their plans for the tournament, with the coaching staff focused on ensuring the squad is physically and mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.

Egypt have been drawn into a competitive group featuring Belgium, Iran and New Zealand, with qualification to the knockout rounds expected to be fiercely contested.

The North African giants will open their World Cup journey against Belgium on Monday, June 15, in what promises to be one of the standout matches of the group’s opening round.

The encounter is scheduled to kick off at 10:00 PM Cairo time and represents a significant early test for the Pharaohs against one of Europe’s strongest footballing nations.

A positive result against Belgium would provide Egypt with a major boost in their quest to secure a place in the knockout stages and could set the tone for the remainder of their campaign.

With preparations entering their final phase and all players focused on the task ahead, Egypt will be hoping to combine strong performances on the pitch with flawless professionalism off it as they seek to make a deep run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.