The draw for the 2026 World Cup resulted in a matchup with strong political tension. Egypt and Iran were assigned to play the match that Seattle had designated, months before knowing the opponents, as the "LGBT Pride Match." The scheduling of the match, set for June 26 at Lumen Field Stadium, coincides with the start of Pride weekend in the city. However, both federations formally requested that this designation be removed.
The president of the Iranian Federation, Mahdi Taj, strongly criticized the decision. "Both we and Egypt have protested. It's an unreasonable decision that seems to support a particular group. We will certainly address this matter," he stated on state television. The objection from both countries is based on their legislation: in Iran and Egypt, same-sex relationships are illegal.
Ambos países rechazan todo lo relacionado al colectivo LGBT
The proposal comes from the Seattle Pride Match Advisory Committee (PMAC), which confirmed that it will move forward with the themed event despite diplomatic complaints. Mayor Katie Wilson also reaffirmed the local position and sent a message of inclusion: "With matches on Juneteenth and during Pride, we can show the world that everyone is welcome in Seattle."
So far, FIFA hasn't taken a position. The most recent precedent is Qatar 2022, when the organization banned the use of the "OneLove" armband, a measure that caused strong controversy and forced several European teams to refrain from wearing it.
Meanwhile, Iran and Egypt complete Group G along with Belgium and New Zealand, and the sporting dimension seems to have taken a back seat. The clash scheduled for June 26 is already shaping up to be one of the most sensitive matches of the 2026 World Cup, at the crossroads of international politics, human rights, and the festive agenda of the host city.
