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Egypt requests FIFA investigate and exclude French referee François Letexier from World Cup 2026
via Le Matin1 min read
The Egyptian Football Association, through its president Hany About Rida, has formally requested FIFA open an investigation into French referee François Letexier. This request follows what the association describes as "flagrant refereeing errors and the application of a double standard" during a match, which they claim led to the Egyptian team's defeat. The association is asking for Letexier, his assistants, and the video assistant referees to be barred from officiating at the World Cup, pending an investigation into these errors and confirmation of discrimination against the Egyptian team. They specifically cite Mr. Letexier's "stubborn refusal" to review certain actions, which they believe should have resulted in a valid goal and a penalty for the Pharaohs. During the match, François Letexier disallowed a goal by Egyptian striker Mostafa Zico in the second half after VAR intervention, citing a foul at the start of the play. The Egyptians also believe they should have been awarded a penalty in added time for a shirt pull on Hamdy Fathy and contact between Mohamed Salah and Julian Alvarez in the box, just before Argentina's third goal. Following the match, Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan criticized the refereeing as "neither fair nor equitable," suggesting that pressure from the Argentinian side influenced the outcome.
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