FIFA has confirmed that the match between Egypt and Iran for the group stage of the 2026 World Cup will be considered 'The Pride Match,' an initiative driven by Seattle, the host city and a place with a strong tradition of LGBTQ+ activism, especially visible in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. The measure, as learned by the Argentine News Agency, aims to promote an inclusive environment during the tournament, but the choice of the teams for this match has immediately sparked a debate. The match will be played on June 26 and will close Group G, which they share with Belgium and New Zealand. The debate revolves around a central idea: inclusion should not be forced, and demanding symbolic gestures from teams whose countries criminalize homosexuality could be counterproductive. Meanwhile, Seattle is preparing for a clash that promises to transcend the sporting: a match that, more than defining a group, will test the real reach of FIFA's inclusive message. Seattle will also host five other World Cup matches, including a round of 16 match and a round of 8 match. The controversy arose because both Egypt and Iran penalize same-sex relationships with severe punishments, which can include prison sentences and even the death penalty, according to denunciations from organizations like Human Rights Watch. Although rainbow flags were allowed to be displayed at that World Cup, the organization was questioned for its contradictory messages between promoting inclusion and local regulations. For now, there are no indications of what Egypt and Iran will have to do regarding this thematic event. In Egypt, homosexuality is also socially treated as 'a disease,' with frequent arrests for public displays of affection. This designation puts FIFA in front of a new challenge after the criticisms it received in Qatar 2022, where same-sex relationships are also penalized.
