FIFA has sparked a fresh World Cup row after confirming fans will be allowed to bring rainbow flags to a “Pride Match” between Iran and Egypt.
Both nations have aggressive anti-LGBTQ+ laws – including the death penalty for homosexuality in – with their bodies lodging official complaints to ban any symbols during the match.
Fans will be able to bring rainbow flags into Lumen Field for the Iran against Egypt match Credit: Getty
People marched through the streets at Seattle Pride Parade on June 25 Credit: AP
Iran lining up in the tunnel before they drew with Belgium in Los Angeles Credit: Getty
Egypt captain Mohamed Salah celebrates during a group stage match between New Zealand and Egypt Credit: Getty
The crunch Group G game is being held in Seattle during week – a major event in the US calendar.
To celebrate the occasion, Seattle’s local organising committee confirmed they would help create a .
The committee agreed it would take place during the final game to be played in Seattle during Pride week on June 26.
This decision was made before the World Cup fixtures were officially announced last December.
against Iran would go on to be announced as the match taking place at Lumen Field – kicking off months of controversy.
Both Iran and Egypt have been accused of severe abuses towards those in LGBTQ+ communities, including arrest and torture.
Under Iranian law the death penalty is the maximum punishment a person can face if they are accused of being in the LGBTQ community.
Homosexuality is not explicitly illegal in Egypt but “debauchery” laws can see people engaging in same-sex acts imprisoned, according to human rights groups.
Fifa President Gianni Infantino has tried to calm the controversy in recent months Credit: Getty
At the Qatar 2022 World Cup a game between Portugal and Uruguay was interrupted by a fan waving a rainbow flag on the pitch Credit: AFP
President has tried his best to play mediator in recent months.
He told Swiss newspaper Weltwoche in January: “I must clarify that there will be no ‘Pride Match’ at the World Cup.
“There will be a Fifa World Cup match in Seattle, and on the same day, events organised by external organizations will be taking place in the city.”
But on Thursday, the organisation confirmed any LGBTQ+ flags, statements or shirts would be permitted inside the ground.
Many European captains, such as England’s Harry Kane, have worn rainbow armbands during games in the past Credit: Getty
Germany players covered their mouths at the Qatar 2022 World Cup after they were told captains couldn’t wear a rainbow-coloured ‘OneLove’ armband Credit: PA
They said the World Cup is “an inclusive event that welcomes people from all backgrounds”.
Both Iran and Egypt have fiercely hit out at the decision.
The Iran Football Federation refused to even say the phrase LGBTQ+ during a statement to The Athletic on Wednesday, instead calling it a “movement”.
They read: “The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran takes this matter seriously and has clearly communicated its position to Fifa.
“Iran and Egypt are two Muslim countries with deep cultural and religious commonalities, and the views expressed by both federations reflects the values and beliefs shared by the people of both countries.
“Our position is that no ceremonies, or promotional activities associated with this movement should be present inside the stadium or as part of the match environment.”
They added that they expect Fifa to “take the necessary steps” to stop any LGBTQ+ symbols being inside the ground.
Similar controversies kicked off in Qatar during the 2022 World Cup as the host nation into the country.
US journalist Grant Wahl said he was detained by security staff after he wore a rainbow shirt to the game.
Fifa also issued a from wearing .
Organisers allegedly warned teams that they could issue red cards and suspensions if players wore pro-LGBTQ+ symbols due to the draconian local laws.
The decision even prompted one of the most iconic images from the tournament as players .
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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