Egypt to Play 2026 World Cup Without AFCON Stars on Kit
Published June 14, 2026
Egypt's national team will not feature the customary seven stars, which represent their Africa Cup of Nations triumphs, on their jerseys during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This decision follows FIFA regulations that restrict star emblems on kits during the tournament to only signify World Cup victories.
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The Egyptian national football team is set to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup without a familiar element on their kit: the seven stars traditionally worn above their crest. These stars commemorate their record seven Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) titles. However, FIFA's specific regulations for the global tournament dictate that only stars representing past World Cup victories are permitted on team jerseys.
This directive comes as a routine procedure from FIFA, according to the Egyptian Football Association (EFA). EFA Media Officer Mohamed Morad Thabet confirmed that the association had been notified about this requirement months in advance, indicating that the team was well-prepared for the adjustment. While national football federations generally have autonomy over their kit designs, the World Cup stage enforces stricter adherence to FIFA's branding guidelines.
For fans of the Pharaohs, who have long associated the seven stars with their nation's continental dominance, the absence will be noticeable as Egypt participates in the expanded 48-team tournament co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico in June and July 2026. This regulation ensures a consistent visual standard across all competing nations, reserving the prestigious star emblem on a World Cup jersey solely for those who have lifted the coveted trophy.