Egypt, Iran demand FIFA ban Pride flags from Seattle World Cup match—league won't budge

FIFA has ignored demands from Egypt and Iran, who are looking to prevent the promotion of LGBTQ paraphernalia by fans at the "Pride Match" between the two Islamic countries on Friday at Lumen Field in Seattle.

The LGBTQ festivities had been planned by Seattle's FWC26, which has a page dedicated to Pride Match Day. Despite objections from the Iran Football Federation and Egypt, FIFA has ignored the demands, per the Telegraph.

“The FIFA World Cup 2026 is an inclusive event that welcomes people from all backgrounds. Fans of all sexual orientations and gender identities are welcome at matches and events,” a FIFA spokesperson said.

“General statements of human rights, including rainbow flags and other flags representing sexual orientation and gender identity, are permitted under the Fifa World Cup 2026 Stadium Code of Conduct and may be displayed inside stadiums provided they are used in a manner consistent with the code.”

In response to questions from The Athletic, a spokesperson for the Iran Football Federation stressed the gravity of the matter.

"The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran takes this matter seriously and has clearly communicated its position to FIFA," the spokesperson said. "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.

"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. This position has been communicated to FIFA through the appropriate channels.

"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.

"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."

FIFA did make it clear that its central headquarters did not have a role in the initiative, and that it was instead organized by a Seattle-area committee.

Same-sex marriage is strictly forbidden in both Egypt and Iran, with punishments ranging from prison time in Egypt to the death penalty in Iran.