FIFA gives green light for rainbow flags at Egypt vs Iran World Cup 'Pride' clash

FIFA authorized rainbow flags for the Egypt vs Iran World Cup group match in Seattle, branded a “Pride Match,” allowing fans to bring them on Friday during designated Pride weekend. FIFA said in a Thursday, June 25 statement that such flags are permitted under the World Cup 2026 Stadium Code of Conduct, as long as items are used in a manner consistent with the code, including limits on size and restrictions on items deemed “political.” The decision sets up tension because homosexuality is criminalized in both Egypt and Iran, with both countries imposing severe penalties on LGBTQ people. FIFA also clarified that the Pride festivities are organized by Seattle’s local organizing committee, not FIFA itself, and referenced prior rule enforcement at Qatar 2022. The match is scheduled in Seattle as the two Muslim-majority nations meet after a December draw sparked objections.