Egypt and Iran object to playing in a Seattle 'Pride' match in next year's World Cup

Iran is illuminated on the screen during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw on December 05, 2025 in Washington, D.C.

Local organizers had planned to include the June 26 game with Seattle's Pride celebrations. Then, FIFA announced the match would include Egypt and Iran, two countries where gay rights are nil.

(Image credit: Kevin Dietsch)