Egypt and Iran File FIFA Complaints Over Planned Pride Events at Seattle World Cup Match

DUBAI — Egypt and Iran have formally complained to FIFA after local organizers in Seattle announced Pride-related programming around a World Cup group-stage match between the two teams on June 26.

Seattle planners described the fixture at Seattle Stadium as a “once-in-a-lifetime moment to showcase and celebrate LGBTQIA+ communities in Washington” and have promoted an accompanying art contest. One submitted design features a rainbow-flagged sun rising behind Mount Rainier as a crab goalie reaches for a soccer ball while holding a cup of coffee in its pinchers.

Official Objections

In Tehran, Mehdi Taj, president of Iran’s Football Federation, criticized the decision on state television and said Iran would raise the matter at an upcoming FIFA meeting in Qatar. “Both Egypt and we have objected, because this is an unreasonable and illogical move that essentially signals support for a particular group, and we must definitely address this point,” Taj said, and state TV later confirmed a formal complaint would be sent to FIFA.

In Cairo, the Egyptian Football Association said it sent FIFA a letter “categorically rejecting any activities related to supporting homosexuality during the match between the Egyptian national team and Iran.” The federation said such activities “directly contradict the cultural, religious and social values in the region, especially in Arab and Islamic societies,” and urged FIFA to cancel the celebration to avoid inflaming cultural and religious sensitivities among supporters.

“Information had circulated indicating the local organizing committee’s decision and plans to hold some activities related to supporting homosexuality during that match, and that it completely rejects such activities,” the Egyptian statement read.

Seattle Responds

Seattle’s local organizing committee said it is “moving forward as planned with our community programming outside the stadium during Pride weekend and throughout the tournament.” Spokesperson Hana Tadesse highlighted the city’s diverse diasporas: “The Pacific Northwest is home to one of the nation’s largest Iranian-American communities, a thriving Egyptian diaspora and rich communities representing all nations we’re hosting in Seattle. We’re committed to ensuring all residents and visitors experience the warmth, respect and dignity that defines our region.”

Seattle’s Mayor-elect Kate Wilson also celebrated the pairing of Juneteenth and Pride programming, saying on social media: “With matches on Juneteenth and pride, we get to show the world that in Seattle, everyone is welcome. What an incredible honor!”

Context

FIFA did not immediately comment. The complaints underscore long-standing repression of LGBTQ+ people in both countries: Egyptian authorities have frequently arrested and prosecuted people on charges such as “debauchery” or “violating public decency,” while Iran’s theocratic penal code prescribes harsh penalties for same-sex relations. Human-rights groups say persecution of LGBTQ+ people remains a serious concern in both countries.

This dispute adds a diplomatic and cultural dimension to a high-profile sporting event, highlighting tensions between local organizers’ inclusive programming and the cultural and legal norms of some participating nations.