Seattle's LGBTQ+ Pride Will Go Ahead During FIFA Tournament Despite Formal Protests from Iran and Egypt

Arrangements to hold Pride-focused celebrations throughout the city during next summer’s FIFA World Cup tournament are proceeding as scheduled, despite Iranian and Egyptian soccer associations voiced strong concerns about a scheduled “Pride Match.”

Stadium Policy Alongside External Festivities

Local organizers stated clearly they are “proceeding as planned” with celebratory programming outside the stadium. This coincides with the tournament group fixture featuring Egypt and Iran on June 26th. Furthermore, FIFA has a policy allowing rainbow flags to be brought into the match venue.

“As the local organising committee, our role is to get the city ready to host the matches and oversee the fan activities outside of the match venue,” said a committee representative.

Legal Background of Formal Complaints

Homosexuality is illegal in Iran, while in Egypt, morality laws are often used to target and prosecute LGBTQ+ people. The Egyptian federation stated it did not want to be associated with celebrations that “directly contradict the cultural, religious and social values … in Arab and Islamic societies.” Similarly, Iran’s football federation publicly registered “its opposition against the issue.”

The Governing Body's Position Regarding Flags and Banners

The international federation holds full authority over match venues on matchdays. Although its rules forbid banners and flags with overtly political content, it permits flags expressing “social and sporting symbols,” which explicitly includes the rainbow flag. This policy was applied at the previous World Cup in Qatar and was reinforced after incidents of flags being seized.

• This special fixture was an idea created to highlight the city's proud history of championing inclusion and equality.
• An artistic competition is underway to produce artwork celebrating the occasion.
• Organizers have pledged to ensuring all fans are welcomed in the city during the tournament.

The region is home to a significant largest communities of Iranian descent, a thriving Egyptian diaspora, and rich communities from every competing country. “We’re committed is to guaranteeing everyone experience the warmth, respect and dignity that defines our part of the country,” organizers added.