Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt intensifies international efforts to combat illegal naturalization of its athletes
Egypt’s Ministry of Youth and Sports has issued a strong statement condemning attempts by some foreign entities to illegally naturalize Egyptian athletes, describing such practices as a violation of Olympic values and a form of human trafficking.
The Ministry voiced serious concern following reports of external efforts to recruit Egyptian players and grant them foreign nationalities through unlawful means. These attempts, Egyptian officials say, exploit young athletes’ social circumstances and undermine not only national sports integrity but also international regulations governing athlete transfers.
Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Egypt’s Minister of Youth and Sports, announced that the issue is being addressed at the highest levels in coordination with national, African, and international sporting bodies. Efforts have begun with the Egyptian Olympic Committee, the Egyptian Wrestling Federation, the African Wrestling Confederation, and the International Wrestling Federation (UWW).
Key steps taken include:
- An official appeal from the African Wrestling Confederation to the International Wrestling Federation and relevant national federations, urging a halt to all unauthorized naturalization attempts involving Egyptian athletes.
- A reaffirmation of Egypt’s sovereign right to protect its athletes, who represent the nation on the international stage.
- Bringing the issue to the agenda of the International Wrestling Federation to ensure sanctions against individuals or organizations proven to be involved in illegal recruitment or influence.
- Commendation of the unified African response, led by Mr. Fouad Meskout, President of the African Wrestling Confederation and Vice President of the International Wrestling Federation, who has strongly rejected any practice that undermines the integrity of sports or players’ dignity across Africa.
The Ministry stressed that under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the Egyptian state remains committed to safeguarding the rights, national belonging, and welfare of its youth and athletes, placing their protection at the top of government priorities.
Furthermore, the Ministry called for full cooperation among local and international sports federations to prevent the recurrence of such incidents, which are described as posing both ethical and humanitarian threats to the future of sport worldwide.
The statement also reiterated the government’s comprehensive support for Egyptian athletes, ensuring their well-being in all aspects—technical, administrative, financial, and social—and pledging swift intervention to resolve any challenges they may face.
Egypt’s stance sends a clear message to the global sporting community: the illegal naturalization of athletes will not be tolerated, and robust international cooperation is essential to safeguard the values and future of sport.