Egypt files FIFA complaint against Letexier, accuses referee of match-fixing after Argentina elimination

Egypt has filed an official complaint with FIFA against French referee François Letexier following its 3-2 elimination by Argentina in the 2026 World Cup round of 16. The Egyptian Football Federation (EFA), through its president Hany Abo Rida, contests several refereeing decisions and demands the exclusion of Letexier and his assistants for the remainder of the tournament.

The Egyptian complaint centres on three specific grievances. The EFA first denounces a clear penalty that was refused without VAR consultation. It then contests the annulment of a second Egyptian goal for a reason deemed “obscure” while the Pharaohs were leading 1-0. Finally, the federation claims that an uncalled Argentine foul initiated the action leading to Enzo Fernandez’s winning goal.

Manager Hossam Hassan did not mince words in his press conference. “I’m going to say what I think, whatever the consequences: this match was clearly fixed, and the whole world saw it. If they want Argentina to win so badly, why did they call everyone to come and participate?” he said shortly after the final whistle.

The situation carries a notable irony: before the match, it was the Argentine camp that was concerned about a French referee being appointed, due to growing tensions between the two nations. Egypt claims that this pre-match media pressure ultimately played in favour of the Albiceleste, placing Letexier under scrutiny that would have influenced his decisions.

In its complaint submitted to the international body, the EFA is calling for the immediate opening of a thorough investigation into the management of the refereeing team and formally demanding the exclusion of François Letexier and all his assistants for the rest of the competition. FIFA has not yet publicly responded to these demands.