By Gloria Ogbonna
The Iran Football Federation has formally called on FIFA to prevent any LGBTQ+ Pride-related ceremonies or promotional activities from taking place during the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup match between Iran and Egypt in Seattle on Friday.
The request comes as Seattle’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Host Committee prepares to recognize the fixture as a “Pride Match.” Since Seattle was confirmed as one of the host cities for the tournament, organizers have planned a series of events celebrating diversity and inclusion. According to The Athletic, the Seattle committee has dedicated a webpage to “Pride Matchday” and scheduled a press briefing highlighting the planned celebrations ahead of the game.
The move has sparked opposition from both Iran and Egypt, two predominantly Muslim nations where homosexuality remains heavily restricted under the law.
In Iran, same-sex relationships are criminalized, with certain same-sex sexual acts carrying the death penalty under the country’s legal system. In Egypt, same-sex relations can result in prison sentences of up to three years, along with financial penalties, according to human rights organizations.
A spokesperson for the Iran national football team confirmed that the federation has officially communicated its concerns to FIFA.
“The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran takes this matter seriously and has clearly communicated its position to FIFA,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson emphasized that Iran and Egypt share similar cultural and religious values, adding that both football federations believe Pride-related ceremonies should not be associated with the match.
“Iran and Egypt are two Muslim countries with deep cultural and religious commonalities, and the views expressed by both federations reflect the values and beliefs shared by the people of both countries,” the spokesperson stated. “Our position is that no ceremonies or promotional activities associated with this movement should be present inside the stadium or as part of the match environment.”
Iran further urged FIFA to consider the concerns of participating nations when determining the atmosphere surrounding World Cup matches.
“We believe FIFA should take into account the views and concerns of the participating teams when considering matters related to the match environment and stadium presentation,” the spokesperson added. “FIFA has been informed of this shared position by both countries and is expected to take the necessary steps to ensure that no related ceremonies or promotional activities take place within the stadium or as part of the official match environment.”
The spokesperson also said Iran has requested that LGBTQ+ symbols, including Pride flags, not be displayed inside the stadium.
The Egyptian Football Association has echoed Iran’s stance. In an official statement published on its website and social media accounts, the association announced that it opposes “the holding of any activities related to supporting homosexuality” during the World Cup fixture.
According to reports, the Egyptian Football Association also sent a formal letter to FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström expressing concern over Seattle organizers’ plans. The letter stated that any activities promoting homosexuality would conflict with the cultural, religious, and social values of the Arab and Islamic communities.
FIFA, however, has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity. The governing body said rainbow flags and other symbols representing sexual orientation and gender identity are permitted at all World Cup matches under the FIFA World Cup 2026 Stadium Code of Conduct.
“The FIFA World Cup is an inclusive event that welcomes people from all backgrounds,” FIFA said in a statement. “Fans of all sexual orientations and gender identities are welcome at matches and events.”
The organization also clarified that rainbow flags and other symbols of support are allowed inside stadiums, provided they comply with tournament regulations.
Earlier this year, FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated in an interview with the Swiss newspaper Weltwoche that the Iran-Egypt fixture itself is not officially designated as a “Pride Match.” He explained that LGBTQ+ events surrounding the game are being organized by external groups and are separate from FIFA’s official match operations.
According to The Athletic, the decision to brand the match as “Pride Matchday” was made by Seattle’s local organizing committee rather than FIFA headquarters. Sources familiar with the planning said most Pride-related programming is expected to take place outside the stadium perimeter, an area that falls outside FIFA’s direct control. Organizers have not scheduled any official Pride ceremonies inside the stadium, although spectators will be permitted to wear rainbow-colored clothing and bring Pride flags in accordance with FIFA’s code of conduct.
The disagreement highlights the ongoing challenge FIFA faces in balancing its commitment to inclusion and human rights with the cultural and religious beliefs of participating nations, as the organization prepares to host one of the most globally watched sporting events in history.
Source Breitbart
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