FIFA confirmed Thursday that fans can bring rainbow flags to the Iran-Egypt Group Stage match at Seattle’s Lumen Field, scheduled for Friday. The fixture falls on Seattle’s annual Pride weekend, a coincidence arising from last December’s draw.
Both Iran and Egypt criminalize homosexuality and objected to the timing. Egypt’s Football Association said the Pride-themed environment conflicted with its religious and cultural values. FIFA, however, stated that its tournament is inclusive and that “general statements of human rights, including rainbow flags,” are permitted under the Stadium Code of Conduct, as long as they are not political.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino distanced the governing body from the “Pride Match” label, saying the city’s celebrations are organized by local committees, not FIFA. “There will be a FIFA World Cup match in Seattle and, on the same day, events organized by external organizations will be taking place,” Infantino told Die Weltwoche in January. Seattle organizers insisted the Pride parade has been held for more than 50 years and would continue with or without the World Cup.
The situation echoes the 2022 Qatar World Cup, where FIFA threatened yellow cards for “OneLove” armbands, citing anti-political rules. This time, FIFA is allowing the displays, leaving local organizers to champion inclusion.