Egypt and Iran, two Middle East nations which target gays and lesbians, have complained to FIFA over a World Cup soccer match in Seattle that is planned to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride. Leaders in the nation's soccer federations publicly rebuked the idea of playing the match June 26 at Seattle Stadium,…

Two Middle East nations that target LGBTQ communities have complained to FIFA over a World Cup soccer match that is planned to celebrate pride.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Egypt and Iran, two Middle East nations which target gays and lesbians, have complained to FIFA over a World Cup soccer match in Seattle that is planned to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride. Leaders in the nation’s soccer federations publicly rebuked the idea of playing the match June 26 at Seattle […]

The two countries, which criminalize homosexuality and impose severe punishments for it, were picked to play on a day celebrating L.G.B.T.Q. communities.

MIKE KEEGAN: Iran and Egypt have complained to FIFA after Seattle designated their World Cup game as a 'Pride Match'. Due to take place on June 26, it coincides with Pride Weekend.

A designated "Pride Match" at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Seattle will feature the national teams of Egypt and Iran, two countries where homosexuality is criminalized.