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FIFA rules in favor of Pride flags at ‘inclusive’ Seattle World Cup, despite countries’ objections

June 26, 2026 | | Print Article

FIFA will allow fans in Seattle to bring rainbow-colored Pride flags to the World Cup matchup between Egypt and Iran.

The game has been designated a “Pride Match” by those who celebrate an alternative lifestyle based on who a person chooses to have sex with, although FIFA is rejecting that tag.

“The FIFA World Cup 2026 is an inclusive event that welcomes people from all backgrounds. Fans of all sexual orientations and gender identities are welcome at matches and events,” FIFA said in a statement. “General statements of human rights, including rainbow flags and other flags representing sexual orientation and gender identity, are permitted under the FIFA World Cup 2026 Stadium Code of Conduct and may be displayed inside stadiums.”

Homosexuality is criminalized in Iran and Egypt, and both countries objected to the draw that falls on Seattle’s Pride weekend.

“Our position is that no ceremonies, or promotional activities associated with this movement should be present inside the stadium or as part of the match environment. This position has been communicated to FIFA through the appropriate channels,” a spokesperson for the Iran national team said, according to The New York Times.

“We believe FIFA should take into account the views and concerns of the participating teams when considering matters related to the match environment and stadium presentation,” the statement continued. “FIFA has been informed of this shared position by both countries and is expected to take the necessary steps to ensure that no related ceremonies or promotional activities take place within the stadium or as part of the official match environment.”

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FIFA has downplayed the Pride festivities, pointing out that the celebrations are organized by Seattle’s local World Cup committee.

“I must clarify that there will be no ‘Pride Match’ at the World Cup,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino told Swiss magazine Die Weltwoche earlier this year. “There will be a FIFA World Cup match in Seattle, and, on the same day, events organized by external organizations will be taking place in the city. But that has nothing to do with the match itself.”

Here’s a quick sampling of responses to the story, as seen on X:

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Tom Tillison
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