2026 World Cup: Fifa yet to intervene on ‘Pride Match’ despite Egypt objection

The Egyptian FA said it had sent a formal letter to Fifa secretary-general Mattias Grafstrom, rejecting “in absolute terms” any activities linked to LGBTQ+ support during the match.

The lengthy Egyptian FA statement claimed the initiative would clash with “the cultural, religious and social values” of Egypt and Iran, and urged Fifa to ensure the match would remain focused on football.

It cited Fifa’s statutes on political and social neutrality, arguing matches should not be used to promote causes that are “sensitive or of a contentious nature”.

The Pride Match plans have also reportedly drawn criticism from Iranian media.

But Wahl said their plans – which focus more on events around the city rather than during the match itself – are staying on course for now.

However he said it was likely there would be celebrations of LGBTQ+ people in stands during the Egypt v Iran game.

“We don’t have involvement with things going on inside the stadium, but it is a very Seattle thing to have Pride flags inside the ground,” he said.

“Everyone affiliated with Egypt and Iran soccer teams are welcome at our parades and events, we are sure they will see it.

“This is something that began to get put together well over a year ago. Pride Month in June is always important, and Seattle does stuff throughout the month.

“So, knowing we have this once-in-a-generation chance, we knew we wanted one of these matches to be pride-themed, with all the resources we have, to highlight to all of our visitors and do it in a joyful kind of way.

“There was never any strategic intent of ‘sticking it to anyone’, to make Fifa feel a certain way.”

He said art from a poster competition would be displayed around the city, and there would be a LGBTQ+ history trail for people to follow.