Organisers of the 2026 World Cup Pride Match in Seattle have called on FIFA to allow planned LGBTQ+ celebrations to proceed, despite objections from the Egyptian and Iranian football associations. The match between Egypt and Iran at Lumen Field on 26 June has been designated as a focal point for Seattle Pride Month events, coinciding with the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.

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Controversy Over Pride Match Celebrations

Local organisers in Seattle have been preparing Pride-themed events around the city for over a year, emphasizing celebration rather than protest. However, the Egyptian FA has formally requested FIFA intervene, citing conflicts with “cultural, religious, and social values” and arguing that matches should remain focused solely on football. Iranian media has also reportedly criticised the initiative.

Eric Wahl, a member of the Seattle Pride Match Advisory Committee, defended the celebrations, stating:

“We don’t have involvement with things going on inside the stadium, but it is a very Seattle thing to have Pride flags inside the ground… Everyone affiliated with Egypt and Iran soccer teams are welcome at our parades and events.”

Wahl highlighted the ethical considerations, pointing to FIFA’s previous stance during the 2022 Qatar World Cup, where players were cautioned against displaying LGBTQ+ support on the pitch.

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Seattle Pride Month and Community Events

The Seattle Pride Match plans focus on city-wide events rather than in-game activities. Organisers intend to feature:

• Art from a local poster competition celebrating LGBTQ+ culture.
• An LGBTQ+ history trail for visitors to explore.
• Community-focused celebrations around Lumen Field, timed to coincide with World Cup fixtures.

“This is something that began to get put together well over a year ago… Knowing we have this once-in-a-generation chance, we wanted one of these matches to be Pride-themed, with all the resources we have, to highlight to all of our visitors and do it in a joyful kind of way,” said Wahl.

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Personal Significance for Organisers

For Wahl, the Pride Match holds deep personal meaning. His late brother, Grant Wahl, an American football journalist, had been detained in Qatar 2022 for attempting to wear a rainbow shirt, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.

“It is very much a bittersweet experience… It shows LGBT people in Egypt and Iran that we welcome you, welcome anyone who loves soccer… That welcome can be revolutionary,” said Wahl.

He emphasised that the initiative is meant to celebrate diversity and soccer’s inclusivity, rather than challenge specific nations or FIFA directly.

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Next Steps and FIFA’s Role

As of now, FIFA has not contacted the Seattle organisers regarding the Pride Match. Wahl expressed cautious optimism:

“I can’t anticipate what FIFA will do, I hope they do the right thing… In general FIFA’s approach is respectful silence—that’s good.”

The Pride Match represents a landmark opportunity to celebrate LGBTQ+ inclusion in football on a global stage, highlighting the importance of visibility and cultural exchange during the World Cup.