Egypt's national soccer team coach Hossam Hassan waved a Palestinian flag on the pitch following his team's World Cup victory against Australia. Hassan stated in a post-game interview that he was dedicating the win to "the good and noble" Egyptian and Palestinian people, adding, "My heart and soul are with them."
Egypt secured its advancement in the World Cup's elimination round by defeating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. This marked Egypt's fourth appearance in the World Cup and its debut in the round of 32.
A widely shared video on social media shows Hassan walking around the field with the Palestinian flag as spectators chanted "Free, free Palestine!"
Hassan, who is not known to have religious affiliations or connections to political groups, was a popular figure among youth during his playing career in the 1980s and 1990s.
The Palestinian flag is permitted at FIFA tournaments, according to a statement provided to The Associated Press by the governing body. FIFA indicated no action would be taken against Hassan, noting that "Flags representing all 211 FIFA Member Associations are permitted at FIFA tournaments, and supporters are welcome to display them in accordance with stadium regulations and the FIFA Stadium Code of Conduct." The Palestine Football Association is a FIFA member organization.
This incident occurs amidst ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, which began after Hamas's attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. The conflict has led to widespread pro-Palestinian protests globally, with some athletes also voicing solidarity. Earlier this year, Spanish league player Lamine Yamal faced criticism for waving a Palestinian flag after a league title celebration, an action that Israel's defense minister described as inciting hate.
FIFA has previously taken stances on political expressions in sports. During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, some European teams were not permitted to wear armbands supporting the "One Love" campaign against discrimination. Additionally, a ban on the pre-revolutionary Iranian flag was upheld in court during that tournament, preventing its display by some Iranian Americans.