World Cup 2026: Seattle Will Celebrate the 'Pride Match' Despite Protests from Iran and Egypt

The organizing committee for the 2026 World Cup in Seattle confirmed on Wednesday that celebrations surrounding the LGBT+ 'Pride Match' will proceed, despite protests from Iran and Egypt.

The match, scheduled for June 26 in Seattle, will be dedicated to the LGBT+ cause and will allow the city in Washington State to highlight its annual 'Pride Weekend'.

"SeattleFWC26 continues to prepare its planned events outside the stadium during Pride Weekend and throughout the tournament, in partnership with LGBTQ+ leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs," said Hana Tadesse, the local organizing committee's vice president in charge of communication, in a statement.

"Football has the unique power to bring people together across borders, cultures, and beliefs. The Pacific Northwest is home to one of the largest Iranian-American communities, a growing Egyptian diaspora, and vibrant communities representing all the teams we will host."

"We are committed to ensuring that all residents and visitors experience the warm welcome, respect, and dignity that characterize our region," the official added.

Iran and Egypt expressed their discontent with the choice of this match, which was made prior to the draw but could have gone to the other teams in Group G, New Zealand and Belgium, who will play in Vancouver on the same day.

"This is an irrational decision that favors a certain group," criticized Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, as quoted by the Isna news agency.

Under Islamic law (Sharia), same-sex sexual relations are prohibited in Iran and can, in some cases, be punished by death.

The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) stated that it had sent an official letter to FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom, categorically rejecting any activities related to support for the LGBT+ cause during the match.

In Egypt, homosexuality is not explicitly banned but is often penalized under vaguely worded laws prohibiting 'debauchery.'