The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has confirmed that it will not penalize Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan for raising the Palestinian flag following the Pharaohs’ round-of-32 match against Australia at the 2026 World Cup.
After Egypt’s historic qualification for the round of 16, the legendary manager—affectionately known as “The General”—draped himself in the Palestinian flag. He then made statements dedicating the Nile nation’s victory to the persevering Palestinian people.
Immediately, Israeli entities launched a counter-campaign demanding sanctions against Hossam Hassan, alongside a massive wave of criticism aimed at the Egyptian coach ahead of the highly anticipated match against Argentina next Tuesday.
However, FIFA quickly shut down these campaigns. In an official statement to the Associated Press, the world football governing body confirmed there were no indications that disciplinary action would be taken against Hossam Hassan.
“The flags of all 211 member associations are permitted at FIFA tournaments and fans are welcome to display them, in line with stadium regulations and the FIFA Code of Conduct,” the FIFA statement read.
It is worth noting that the Palestinian Football Association is an official member of FIFA, meaning the Palestinian flag is among those fully permitted to be raised during all FIFA competitions.
