Designated activities to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community around the match between Egypt and Iran in the 2026 World Cup finals will proceed as planned, according to the World Cup organizers in Seattle, USA, despite objections from officials of both countries.

Decisive Iranian Response after Egypt Match in 2026 World Cup Classified to Support LGBTQ+

The 2026 World Cup Organizing Committee in Seattle explained that the group stage match scheduled for June 26, locally dubbed the 'Pride Match,' will serve as a platform to highlight the city's annual celebrations for Pride Weekend.
The 2026 World Cup finals will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.

Egypt National Team (AFP)

'We will proceed with our programs'

Hana Tadesse, Vice President of Communications for the Committee, said in a statement distributed to American media, "Seattle 2026 World Cup is moving forward with implementing our community programs off the field during Pride Weekend and throughout the tournament, in partnership with leaders, artists, and business owners from the LGBTQ+ community to enhance existing celebrations in Washington State."
The statement added, "Football has a unique power to unite people across borders, cultures, and beliefs. The Pacific Northwest hosts one of the largest Iranian-American communities in the country, alongside a thriving Egyptian community and diverse communities representing all the countries we host in Seattle."
The statement continued, "We are committed to ensuring that all residents and visitors receive the warmth, respect, and dignity that distinguish our region."

Iran National Team (AFP)

Objections from Iran and Egypt

Iranian and Egyptian officials expressed their objections to Pride celebrations in Seattle associated with their match.
Homosexuality is illegal in Iran under Islamic law and can be punishable by death.
The Iranian news agency ISNA quoted the President of the Iran Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, saying that Tehran and Cairo have submitted "objections regarding this issue," describing it as a "senseless move supporting a specific group."
Iran's official channel reported Monday that Tehran would file an "appeal" with FIFA regarding this matter.
The Egyptian federation also expressed similar objections, according to unnamed sources cited by local Egyptian media.
In Egypt, homosexuality is not explicitly banned, but it is often punished under broad laws prohibiting "debauchery."