The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature a "Pride Match" between Egypt and Iran, to be held in Seattle on June 26, coinciding with Seattle's LGBTQ+ Pride weekend.This event presents a significant opportunity to celebrate LGBTQIA+ communities and support local businesses, arts, and organizations.The pairing of
Egypt and
Iran, nations where homosexuality is criminalized and can carry severe penalties including the death penalty, is seen by some as ironic, especially given Western observers' potential amusement, posing a challenge for
FIFA reminiscent of criticisms during the 2022 World Cup in
Qatar.