Iran’s football authorities have sharply condemned the decision to label their 2026 World Cup match against Egypt as an LGBTQ “Pride Match,” calling the branding an “irrational move” by local organisers in the United States.
Iran Slams Seattle Organisers Over “Pride Match” Designation
The fixture, set for June 26 in Seattle during the city’s Pride Weekend celebrations, was highlighted by the local organising committee as part of their inclusive programming.
But Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, said both Iran and Egypt had formally objected to the branding.
Taj, speaking to Iran’s ISNA news agency, said the move “supports a certain group” and described the decision as unacceptable to Tehran. He did not mention the LGBTQ label directly, though Iranian state television later announced that Iran intended to “appeal” the matter to FIFA.
Cultural and Legal Tensions Fuel Backlash
Iran strictly criminalises homosexuality, with punishments that can extend to the death penalty.
Egypt, while not explicitly outlawing homosexuality, frequently uses “debauchery” laws to target LGBTQ individuals.
Local Egyptian media reported that the Egyptian Football Association has also raised objections, citing cultural and religious sensitivities.
Diplomatic Strains Add to Matchday Controversy
Already marked by political tension, the match sits against a backdrop of decades-long strained relations between Iran and the United States.
Iran initially boycotted the World Cup draw due to visa issues for members of its delegation but later reversed the decision.
Taj also warned that several Iranian players may face U.S. visa restrictions due to past or current military service in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Washington designated a foreign terrorist organisation in 2019.
“We must prepare alternatives,” he said, noting that the federation is already considering backup player options.
Group G: Iran Drawn with Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand
Iran will compete in Group G, facing Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand in what will be their seventh World Cup appearance.
The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico, will run from June 11 to July 19, covering 39 days of fixtures.