An Egyptian kung fu champion, Mohammed Youssef, has been stripped of a gold medal and also banned from representing his country after showing support for ousted President Mohammed Morsi.

CEOAFRICA learnt that Mr Youssef was photographed at a tournament in Russia wearing a T-shirt with a symbol showing solidarity with pro-Morsi protesters.

State-run media pictured him receiving the honour in a T-shirt emblazoned with an open palm and four fingers - the symbol of a pro-Morsi camp violently cleared by the authorities.

Mr Youssef's brother Hammam says the athlete was sent home early from the contest and interrogated on arrival. The gold medal he had won was confiscated.

Egypt's government has cracked down on supporters of the former president after he was deposed in July.

According to Egypt Kung Fu Association executive officer, Gamal El-Jazzar “Kung fu player Mohammed Youssef will be deported from Russia due to his behaviour," It is unclear if the ban will be permanent. He said.