During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a 'Pride Match' will be held to support LGBT representatives. The events will take place during the game between the national teams of Egypt and Iran. The match is scheduled for June 26, 2026, in Seattle. This event is organized by the local committee SeattleFWC26, independently of FIFA, and is timed to coincide with Pride Weekend in June, highlighting support for LGBT rights in the region.
Local organizers in Seattle stated that they only control events outside the 72,000-seat stadium, but not what happens inside the stadium where the match will take place. This is fully FIFA's responsibility.
Despite protests from football organizations in Egypt and Iran, FIFA's management confirmed the match will be held with LGBT support. This may lead to conflicts similar to the situation with the 'OneLove' armbands at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Historic event in the world of football
This news is yet another testament to the fact that football can be a platform for supporting LGBT rights and diversity. Changes are taking place in the sports world that promote acceptance and equality for all athletes and fans.