The Iranian Football Federation has urged FIFA to prohibit any “rituals or propaganda” linked to LGBTQ+ lifestyles during the upcoming Pride Match between Iran and Egypt slated for Friday in Seattle.
The New York Times reported that since it was confirmed Seattle would host a World Cup match on June 26, the city’s organizing committee has been planning various activities. The game, taking place at Lumen Field, will see Iran face off against Egypt, following a draw that occurred last December. Additionally, the Seattle FWC26 Committee has set up a dedicated page for Pride Matchday, and a related press conference is scheduled for Thursday.
Both Iran and Egypt criminalize homosexuality, with Iran imposing the death penalty for certain same-sex acts. Homosexuality can lead to up to three years in prison or a fine in Egypt.
A spokesperson for the Iranian national team stated, “The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran takes this matter seriously and has clearly communicated its position to FIFA.”
The spokesperson emphasized the cultural and religious similarities between Iran and Egypt, asserting that both federations’ views reflect the shared values of their people. They stated, “Our position is that rituals and promotional activities associated with this movement should not take place inside stadiums or as part of the match environment. This has been conveyed to FIFA through the proper channels.”
The spokesperson also pointed out that FIFA should consider the perspectives and concerns of participating teams regarding match conditions. They reiterated that FIFA has been made aware of this shared stance by both countries and is expected to take measures to prevent related activities in the stadium.
Furthermore, the spokesperson expressed that they do not want LGBTQ+ symbols displayed in their stadiums.
FIFA had previously announced it would allow the use of rainbow flags at all matches this summer. Nevertheless, FIFA President Gianni Infantino remarked in January that the upcoming match was not a “pride match,” clarifying that an external organization was hosting an LGBTQ+ event “unrelated to the match itself.”
Reports indicate that the organizers in Seattle opted to label the match as a “Pride Match,” a decision made independently of FIFA’s involvement. It is planned that Pride-themed activities will take place outside the stadium area, outside FIFA’s jurisdiction. While no events are scheduled inside the stadium, attendees will be permitted to bring Pride flags and wear rainbow-colored apparel.
The Egyptian Football Association also released a statement via their X account and website, expressing their opposition to activities supporting homosexuality during matches.
The association has communicated with FIFA Secretary General Matthias Grafström concerning their awareness of the Seattle committee’s plans. They firmly oppose activities tied to support for homosexuality, deeming them incompatible with the cultural and religious values of the region, particularly among Arab and Muslim communities.
FIFA, in a statement on Wednesday, affirmed that the World Cup is “an inclusive event” that welcomes individuals of all backgrounds. They welcome fans of various sexual orientations and gender identities at their games and events. Furthermore, they clarified that displays of general human rights symbols, such as rainbow flags, are allowed in line with the 2026 FIFA World Cup Stadium Code of Conduct, provided they adhere to the Code’s guidelines.
