Egypt and Iran ask Fifa to prevent LGBTQ+ Pride celebration at World Cup 2026 match

The Guardian – SportWednesday, December 10, 2025 at 5:18:26 AM
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Egypt and Iran ask Fifa to prevent LGBTQ+ Pride celebration at World Cup 2026 match
  • Egypt and Iran have formally requested FIFA to intervene and prevent any LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations during their World Cup 2026 match scheduled in Seattle. The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) expressed concerns that such events would conflict with their cultural values, while Iran's football officials labeled the proposed branding of the match as a 'Pride Match' as an irrational move that does not align with their beliefs.
  • This development highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in the context of international sporting events. Both nations' objections reflect their cultural and political stances, which are often at odds with the growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights in many parts of the world.
  • The situation underscores a broader debate about the intersection of sports, human rights, and cultural values, particularly as human rights organizations have urged FIFA to ensure the protection of local communities and fans during the World Cup. This incident may also influence discussions about the inclusivity of sporting events and the responsibilities of governing bodies like FIFA in addressing such cultural conflicts.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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