Egypt and Iran against Pride celebration in their scheduled match, saying Pride event would clash with values.
Egypt and Iran ask Fifa to prevent LGBTQ+ Pride celebration at World Cup 2026 match.
Egypt and Iran are urging football’s governing body to step in during the LGBTQ+ Pride event that will take place in conjunction with their 2026 World Cup group stage match in Seattle.
Egypt’s Football Association (EFA) announced on Tuesday that it had written to Fifa requesting that they forbid any events linked to LGBTQ+ Pride during the national team’s June friendly against Iran.
In the letter, the EFA makes the case that such activities would be incompatible with the religious and cultural beliefs of the participating countries.
In order to align with Seattle’s Pride weekend, local organisers have classified the match on June 26 as a “Pride Match.”
LGBTQ+ individuals face harsh penalties in Egypt and Iran, the two countries participating in the match.
The plans, which include LGBTQ+ festivities and art exhibits throughout Seattle and the stadium, were reportedly created prior to the tournament draw confirming the Group G match.
In its letter to Fifa’s secretary general, Mattias Grafstrom, the EFA said it “categorically rejects any activities promoting LGBTQ during the match,” warning that such events could “provoke cultural and religious sensitivities among fans”.
“These activities directly conflict with the cultural, religious and social values of the region, particularly in Arab and Islamic societies,” the EFA wrote.
“While Fifa is committed to ensuring a respectful environment that welcomes all fans, it is essential to avoid activities that could spark tension or misunderstanding between supporters from Egypt and Iran.
“We call on Fifa to guarantee that the match takes place in an atmosphere focused solely on sport and free from displays that contradict the beliefs of the participating nations.”