- FIFA has confirmed that rainbow flags will be permitted at the World Cup match between Egypt and Iran in Seattle, despite objections from both nations, where homosexuality is criminalized.
- The Group G match coincided with Seattle's annual Pride weekend and was designated a "Pride Match" by the local organizing committee, prompting protests from the Egyptian and Iranian football federations.
- FIFA stated that the World Cup is an inclusive event and that "general statements of human rights, including rainbow flags," are allowed inside stadiums.
- Seattle organizers and local LGBTQ+ advocates emphasize that the event showcases the city's long-standing commitment to inclusion and that Pride celebrations are a decades-old tradition.
- Both the Egyptian and Iranian teams have focused solely on the football aspect of the match, with coaches and officials declining to answer questions related to the Pride celebrations.
IN FULL
FIFA defies anti-LGBTQ backlash and allows Pride flags at Iran-Egypt World Cup match
