Pride Flags fly in Seattle during Iran vs Egypt game
Pride flags were out in Seattle during the Iran vs Egypt World Cup game.
Before the match, several local organizers planned to hold “Pride Match” festivities, which angered the Iranian team, which filed a formal complaint with FIFA.
“Iran and Egypt are two Muslim countries with deep cultural and religious commonalities, and the views expressed by both federations reflects the values and beliefs shared by the people of both countries,” a spokesman for the Iran national team is quoted as saying. “Our position is that no ceremonies, or promotional activities associated with [the LGBT] 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 rejected Iran’s complaints and allowed Pride flags inside Lumen Field during the game.
“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,” Fifa said in a statement.
“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.”
On match day, several large Pride flags were seen lying at Lumen Field.
Anthony from Seattle flies a #Pride Flag ahead of the @fifaworldcup match between Iran and Egypt at Seattle Stadium.
Seattle local organizers have designated this game as a “Pride Match”, but FIFA does not recognize the designation.#fifaworldcup #seattlestadium #fox13seattle pic.twitter.com/TBTjXr8EG0
— Lauren Helmbrecht (@lmhelmbrecht) June 27, 2026
NEW: Iranian and Egyptian soccer federations wanted FIFA to strip any “Pride Match” displays from Friday’s World Cup showdown in Seattle.
But rainbow flags are all around the stadium, angering these Muslim majority nations that have criminalized homosexuality. @choeshow|@TPUSA pic.twitter.com/tPbCbIdaGu— FRONTLINES TPUSA (@FrontlinesTPUSA) June 27, 2026