There was much excitement when the draw for the 2026 World Cup fixtures was made last Friday. Co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, soccer's quadrennial showpiece is a chance for the world's best nations to come together and see who is the greatest.
Seattle was named as one of the host cities over three years ago, and the June 26 match next year, to be played in the city's stadium, was designated a "Pride" match, to kick off Pride celebrations that weekend.
FOX 13 Seattle quoted the local FIFA organizing committee, stating the match is a "rare opportunity to make a lasting impact, one that educates the world, inspires our LGBTQ+ community, and uplifts those businesses and cultural organizations." They have pride match designs, "reminding all that inclusion is Seattle’s greatest strength."
"Our city is ready, the fans are ready, and I can't wait!" Mayor-elect of Seattle Katie Wilson wrote on X, "FIFA World Cup is coming to Seattle, and we are excited to be a part of the global celebration. With matches on Juneteenth and Pride, we get to show the world that in Seattle, everyone is welcome. What an incredible honor!"
However, some interest, and possibly some concern, has arisen after the draw on Friday means the "Pride" match will be played by Egypt and Iran, two countries with less-than-admirable LGBTQ+ records.
Islamic countries and the outlawing of homosexuality
As with many Islamic countries, homosexuality is outlawed in Iran and punishable by death. Many LGBTQ+ Iranians have fled the country, looking for asylum in the United States or the Middle East.
Egyptian law does not explicitly outlaw homosexuality, but members of the LGBTQ+ community face discrimination, harassment, and violence for their sexual orientation.
If the pride flag flies next June alongside the Islamic Republic's flag, it will become must-watch TV.