FIFA Intervenes Again: Another World Cup Participant Forced to Change Kits Hours Before Kick-off

In Haiti's case, the issue stemmed from a depiction of the 1803 Battle of Vertières, which led to the country's independence. FIFA deemed this a political statement and prohibited it.

For Egypt, however, FIFA took issue with the stars positioned above the national emblem. The seven stars symbolize the record seven Africa Cup of Nations titles the North African nation has won.

The problem is that, according to FIFA regulations, only stars representing World Cup victories can be displayed on jerseys during the tournament. Egypt, however, has yet to win a World Cup title.

The sole exception to this rule is Uruguay, which, despite only two World Cup titles, is permitted to wear four stars on their chest. Gold medals from the 1924 and 1928 Olympic Games, won before the first official World Cup in 1930, are counted because FIFA also organized these Olympic tournaments.

Furthermore, Egypt also had to adjust the numbers on the players' backs. The originally designed gold numerals on the red background of the jersey would not have been sufficiently visible to referees and television viewers, according to FIFA. Consequently, the numbers at the tournament will be white, as explained to ESPN by Mohamed Morad, the Egyptian team's media manager. Kit supplier Puma has already implemented these changes.

Regarding the stars, Morad stated that they had anticipated the ban. "This news was essentially just a formality. We foresaw it and made the necessary preparations in advance," he added.

Egypt will kick off their tournament campaign on Monday evening at 9:00 PM with a Group G match against Belgium. They will also face Iran and New Zealand.