The Group G fixture, set for 26 June 2026 in Seattle, USA, coincides with the city's annual Pride weekend, with the local organizing committee having officially designated the game as Seattle's "Pride Match," a decision that has sparked controversy from both participating nations.
In a statement, the EFA said they sent an official letter to FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström after receiving reports that the local organizers planned to include Pride-related initiatives during the match.
The federation said they reject such plans outright because they “directly conflict with the cultural, religious, and social values in the region, particularly in Arab and Islamic societies.”
The EFA added that although they recognize FIFA’s efforts to create an inclusive environment, “unity and peace” require avoiding activities that may “provoke cultural and religious sensitivities,” especially for supporters from Egypt and Iran.
The EFA grounded their objection in several FIFA principles, specifically Article 4, which calls for neutrality in political and social matters and bars the use of football as a platform for controversial messages.
The EFA also cited the FIFA Disciplinary Code and Event Regulations, which stress that tournaments should remain free from displays that could “provoke tension, misunderstanding, or conflict among fans from different backgrounds.”
The letter concluded with a request that FIFA prevent any LGBTQ-related displays inside the stadium on match day, urging the governing body to keep the focus on football and to respect “the beliefs and identities of the participating communities.”
Iran echoes objection
Iran’s Football Federation (FFIRI) expressed similar concerns on Tuesday, rejecting what they called the “irrational” branding of the fixture.
FFIRI chief Mehdi Taj told the Iranian news agency ISNA that both Tehran and Cairo submitted “objections against the issue,” describing the designation as “an irrational move that supports a certain group.”
Egypt will kick off their World Cup campaign against Belgium on 15 June, 2026, in Group G, which also includes Iran and New Zealand.
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