FIFA removes French referee François Letexier from the 2026 World Cup following controversy surrounding the Round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt. Multiple outlets report that Letexier, who officiated the Argentina–Egypt game that ended with Argentina winning 3–2, became the focus of criticism after Egypt’s coach Hossam Hassan and players raised objections to decisions during the match. The complaints discussed in coverage include a disallowed goal and a rejected penalty appeal.
While the match officiating remains at the center of public debate, reporting also says FIFA does not confirm wrongdoing by Letexier. Egypt Independent and other accounts cite that FIFA excluded him from further assignments, and at least one report links the decision to FIFA’s referee rotation policy. Other coverage frames the exclusion as connected to broader concerns about VAR consistency in recent matches.
Overall, sources agree the decision affects Letexier’s role in the tournament, but they differ on emphasis: some focus on the Argentina–Egypt officiating disputes, while others highlight FIFA’s administrative rationale, including rotation and match officials being reshuffled.
