FIFA has been encouraged by Egypt’s Football Association to ban any LGBTQ+ Pride-related events during the country’s June World Cup match against Iran in Seattle.
The EFA contended that the planned ceremonies would be conflicting with the religious and cultural beliefs of the participating countries.
In order to align with Seattle’s Pride weekend, local organizers have named the June 26 game a “Pride Match.”
LGBTQ+ individuals face harsh penalties in Egypt and Iran, the two countries playing in the match.
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Reports say the preparations, which include LGBTQ+ celebrations and artwork displays outside the stadium and across Seattle, were drawn up prior to the tournament draw confirmed the Group G fixture.
According to The Metro, in its letter to FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom, the EFA said it ‘categorically rejects any activities promoting LGBTQ during the match,’ warning that such events could ‘provoke cultural and religious sensitivities among fans.’
“These activities directly conflict with the cultural, religious and social values of the region, particularly in Arab and Islamic societies,” the EFA wrote.
“While FIFA is committed to ensuring a respectful environment that welcomes all fans, it is essential to avoid activities that could spark tension or misunderstanding between supporters from Egypt and Iran.”
“We call on FIFA to guarantee that the match takes place in an atmosphere focused solely on sport and free from displays that contradict the beliefs of the participating nations.”
While morality laws are frequently used to prosecute LGBTQ+ people in Egypt, same-sex relationships can result in death penalty in Iran.
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