FIFA orders Egypt to remove Africa Cup of Nations stars from 2026 World Cup kit; gold numbers also changed to white

FIFA enforces star ban

The Egyptian national team's traditional home jersey features seven stars above the crest, each representing one of their record seven Africa Cup of Nations titles. FIFA regulations, however, allow only stars symbolising World Cup victories on kits worn at the tournament. The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) confirmed it had received notification from FIFA months ago and had already prepared for the change.

“Accordingly, the necessary measures and coordination with the responsible authorities were taken in good time. Therefore, it is not a new or surprising development just before the start of the tournament.”

The federation also had to adjust the gold-coloured back numbers on the red home shirt, as they were deemed insufficiently visible for referees and television viewers. They will now be white, improving legibility.

Egypt's response and Haiti's precedent

Egypt's media officer Mohamed Morad told ESPN that kit supplier Puma had already implemented the changes. He stressed that the decision was expected and the notification was treated as a routine procedure.

“The message was just a routine process. We anticipated it and made the necessary preparations in time.”

Egypt is not the only team forced to alter its World Cup attire: Haiti earlier had to remove a scene depicting the 1803 Battle of Vertières from its kit after FIFA objected. The only exception to the star rule is Uruguay, who wear four stars for their two World Cup titles and two Olympic gold medals won before the first World Cup in 1930.

Opening matches

Egypt begin their Group G campaign on Monday evening (21:00 Swiss time) against Belgium. Haiti play Scotland in the early hours of Sunday (03:00).