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Iran and Egypt set for World Cup pride match amid controversy

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 7:49 PM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

Iran and Egypt set for World Cup pride match amid controversy

Summary

Iran and Egypt will participate in the first-ever World Cup pride match on June 25, 2026, in Seattle. Initially intended as a celebration of LGBTQ+ inclusivity coinciding with Seattle’s Pride Weekend, the match has sparked political backlash due to the countries' anti-LGBTQ+ stances. Both nations' football federations condemned the match, with Iran labeling it 'irrational' and Egypt rejecting it as a provocation of cultural sensitivities. FIFA has distanced itself from the event, clarifying that there will be no official 'Pride Match' associated with the World Cup.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Match scheduled for June 25, 2026, in Seattle.
•Event coincides with Seattle's Pride Weekend celebrations.
•Iran and Egypt oppose the LGBTQ+ focus of the match.
•FIFA states there will be no official pride match.
•Local organizers emphasize support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Latest Updates

7:49 PMYahoo Sports — ‘Queer people exist in Iran and Egypt’: Inside the politicisation of the first-ever World Cup pride match

What they're saying

"
WORLD CUP 2026 : A match celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in conjunction with Seattle’s Pride Weekend celebrations was a perfect moment for inclusivity and football to align. Then, Iran were drawn to face Egypt. Kieran Jackson takes a look at the rainbow game – an event which turned into (another) political storm at the 2026 World Cup
— Yahoo Sports

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