The day before the World Cup Round of 32, the Egyptian national team was in their hotel lobby, taking photos with fans, when Dallas police entered the lobby and a physical altercation ensued.
According to Fox 4 News, a video taken of the incident shows Egyptian athletes taking photos with young fans when police enter the hotel lobby. The officers first approach the team’s head coach, Hossam Hassan, and then the team director, Ibrahim Hassan. One officer appears to yell “Back off” before a shoving match begins, and team members as well as other officers got involved.
Following the physical altercation, the police released a statement, apologizing. The officers also reportedly met with the Egyptian national team after the Round of 32 game to resolve the matter in person.
"The Dallas Police Department responded to the Westin at the request of hotel security regarding an individual without event credentials attempting to gain access. The situation was resolved on scene, and DPD met with representatives of the team to address their concerns. The matter has since been resolved," the department said.
No one was seriously injured in the altercation, and coach Hassan later released a statement saying, “"We are really happy to be here at this tournament, and we are satisfied with the security personnel that are accompanying us. I would like to point to the high-level organization we have with us and the level of security we have with us."
Despite the department’s apology, local lawmakers in Dallas have raised the alarm. Dallas Councilman Adam Bazaldua said he did not believe the police were acting with respect or professionalism in that moment.
"The video circulating online depicting an interaction between a Dallas police officer and a member of the Egyptian national team is deeply troubling and has understandably generated significant concern throughout our community and beyond," said Bazaldua.
