Egypt and Iran file official complaint to FIFA over 'Pride Match' at World Cup 2026

Egypt and Iran have sent a letter to FIFA, firmly rejecting the organization of any events supporting homosexuality during their third-round match at the 2026 World Cup.

Details: According to the DailyMail, the match was originally planned as part of LGBTQ+ community celebrations in one of the most liberal cities in the US, Seattle, and had been scheduled even before it was known which national teams would play on that date. However, now that the teams set to play—Egypt and Iran—have been determined, both federations have voiced their objections to the event.

• See also: Brugge – Arsenal: Will Arsenal extend their lead at the top of the UEFA Champions League table?

The Iran vs Egypt match is scheduled for June 26, 2026—right in the middle of Seattle Pride Weekend. However, both national football federations, representing countries where homosexuality is illegal, have opposed the organizers' decision. Even six months before the start of the tournament, the situation has already escalated into a diplomatic dispute.

Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj called Seattle's decision unwise and accused it of supporting a specific group during a broadcast on state television, confirming that both Tehran and Cairo have sent formal complaints to FIFA.

The Egyptian Football Association addressed a letter to FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström, stating it categorically rejects any initiatives supporting homosexuality during the match, which, according to them, directly contradict the cultural, religious, and social values of the region, particularly in Arab and Islamic societies.

The Iranian side also pointed out to FIFA that such a decision violates the organization's rules, which prohibit political, religious, and ideological messages in stadiums.

Reminder: FIFA is introducing extra breaks during matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.