Seattle’s World Cup Pride Moment: When Football Meets Pride in the Egypt vs Iran Clash
11 December 2025
Seattle World Cup organizers confirm that LGBTQ+ support activities will be staged alongside the group-stage clash between Egypt and Iran, as planned, despite objections from officials in both countries.
The June 26 match, locally dubbed the "Pride Match," will also serve as a platform for Seattle's annual Pride Weekend celebrations.
Hana Tadisi, the deputy head of communications for the Seattle 2026 committee, said in a press release that Seattle's World Cup program will proceed with community initiatives outside the stadium during Pride Weekend and throughout the tournament, in partnership with leaders, artists, and business owners from the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate Pride in Washington state.
"Football has a unique power to unite people across borders, cultures and beliefs," she noted, highlighting Seattle's extensive Iranian American community alongside a thriving Egyptian community and other diverse groups represented among the World Cup nations.
We are committed to ensuring that all residents and visitors enjoy warmth, respect and dignity that define our region.
Egyptian-Iranian Opposition
Iranian and Egyptian officials expressed objections to Pride celebrations in Seattle tied to their match.
Iran's Football Federation president Mehdi Taj told ISNA that Tehran and Cairo submitted protests against the matter, calling it an irrational move in support of a particular group.
Iranian state TV later reported that Tehran would appeal to FIFA on this issue.
The Egyptian Football Association, led by Hany AbouRida, sent an official letter to FIFA rejecting any activities supporting LGBT during the Iran match.
These reports sparked wide debate, particularly since FIFA has not issued an official response.
The World Cup draw placed Egypt in Group G with Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand. The finals run in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
