Iran asks FIFA to bar Pride symbols from Seattle World Cup match

Iran’s football association has asked FIFA to block rainbow and Pride symbols from the World Cup match against Egypt on June 26 in Seattle, a game local organizers had labeled a “Pride Match.” The request comes ahead of a decisive Group G meeting at Lumen Field, which the Seattle World Cup local committee had linked to Pride Month and promoted with related activities and a dedicated web page.

According to a report in The Athletic, the Iranian federation sent FIFA a letter saying any ceremonies or promotional activities associated with the Pride campaign should not take place inside the stadium or in the official match environment. A team spokesman said, “Iran and Egypt are two Muslim countries with deep cultural and religious similarities,” and argued that FIFA should respect the “values and beliefs” shared by both nations. He added that Iran had made its position clear through the proper channels and expected FIFA to take the necessary steps.

The match has added significance because Iran and Egypt are still battling for position in the group, with Iran having already played two matches and drawn both, against Belgium and New Zealand. Iran is also preparing a formal complaint over travel restrictions imposed during the tournament, after being forced to leave the United States immediately after its games because of ongoing tensions linked to the Middle East conflict.

FIFA has not issued an official response to Iran’s latest request. The governing body has said in the past that the World Cup is an “inclusive and accepting” event, and The Athletic reported that it allows Pride flags and symbols at all 2026 World Cup matches. FIFA president Gianni Infantino, however, has rejected making the Pride branding official, saying, “There will not be a ‘Pride Match’ at the FIFA World Cup.” He said the June 26 game will simply be a World Cup match in Seattle, while unrelated Pride events may take place elsewhere in the city.