Summary
Iran's football chief has objected to the branding of a World Cup 2026 match against Egypt as a "Pride Match" to support the LGBTQ community. The match is planned for Seattle, USA, during Pride Weekend in late June 2026. Iran and Egypt have both raised objections, and Iran plans to appeal to FIFA.
Key Facts
- Iran's football chief criticized the "Pride Match" label for its game against Egypt in the 2026 World Cup.
- The match is scheduled to coincide with Seattle's Pride Weekend in June 2026.
- Iran and Egypt have both expressed their objections to this branding.
- Homosexuality is illegal in Iran and can be punished by death.
- Egypt does not explicitly outlaw homosexuality but enforces laws against "debauchery."
- The 2026 World Cup will take place in the US, Canada, and Mexico, marking Iran's seventh participation.
- Iran and the US have not had diplomatic relations since 1980.
- Iran might face issues with player visas due to military service connections to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
