FIFA Tightens Kit Rules, Forcing Egypt to Remove World Cup Shirt Details

FIFA has forced another national team to change its kit just before kickoff at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. After Haiti was told to remove a war-scene image from its shirt because the design was deemed too political, Egypt has now been ordered to make major changes as part of FIFA's new enforcement of uniform rules.

Egypt, led by Mohamed Salah, will open Group D against Belgium on Monday, then play Iran and New Zealand. The team must do so without the seven stars it usually places above its crest to mark its seven Africa Cup of Nations titles. FIFA ruled that only World Cup victories may be represented by stars on shirts worn during the tournament, so continental titles such as the Africa Cup of Nations, the Euros and the Copa America cannot be shown that way.

FIFA also rejected Egypt's gold numbers and lettering. Organizers said metallic gold numbering is not suitable because of visibility concerns on the pitch. It is Egypt's fourth appearance at a World Cup finals, and its last group-stage outing came in 2018.

Because of the expanded format and the opponents in its group, Egypt hopes to reach the knockout stage this time. FIFA's rule means only eight countries can now wear stars on their shirts at this World Cup, including Brazil, Germany and Argentina. Italy, one of the most decorated teams, will not be in the tournament because it failed to qualify.