FIFA rejects Egypt and Iran's joint request to ban LGBT flags at World Cup match

FIFA rejected a joint request from Egypt and Iran’s football associations to ban rainbow LGBT-supporting flags at the World Cup match between the countries. The Egypt vs Iran game is scheduled for Friday evening in Seattle, coinciding with the city’s annual Pride celebrations, which has fueled controversy given both nations’ different stances toward same-sex relationships. FIFA said the tournament is an inclusive event and that rainbow flags are allowed inside stadiums as long as they follow FIFA’s approved code of conduct. FIFA controls stadium entry and conduct, while Pride events are organized by Seattle. Seattle authorities expected protests and confirmed designated areas and heightened security. Separately, the United States rejected an Iranian request to delay the team’s departure, allowing early entry two days before the match but denying extra time for recovery after the game.