Egypt Coach Proud of World Cup Political Gesture and Snubs Lionel Messi

Hossam Hassan, the Egyptian national football team coach, openly expressed pride in his controversial political gesture during the 2026 World Cup held in the United States. After Egypt's victory over Australia, Hassan raised the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) flag live on air, an act he described as spontaneous and driven by personal and moral convictions. He emphasized that showing solidarity with Gaza was a "human duty," especially given the suffering of children witnessed globally. Hassan justified his action by noting that Egypt's opponents watch their matches while Palestinians endure devastation in Gaza.

Following Egypt's 3-2 loss to Argentina in the round of 16, Hassan's conduct sparked further controversy. He was filmed making a large 'X' gesture toward the referee, which he claimed was a protest against discriminatory refereeing decisions in line with FIFA regulations, not an attempt to incite. Despite the backlash and near expulsion from the match, Hassan maintained he acted with dignity amid adversity.

Additionally, Hassan revealed that Lionel Messi approached him after the tense match, but he deliberately ignored the football star. Hassan said he was surprised by Messi's approach but chose not to engage, interpreting Messi's emotional reaction on the field as acknowledgment of the challenge Egypt posed. Hassan's remarks and actions have drawn international criticism for mixing politics with sport, but he remains unapologetic and steadfast in his stance.