Rainbow flags allowed at Iran vs Egypt World Cup match
FIFA has announced that rainbow flags will not be banned at the World Cup match between Iran and Egypt in Seattle, despite objections from both countries.
Seattle's PrideFest, which has been held in the city since 2007, announced before the World Cup group draw that the match on June 26 would be dedicated to Pride celebrations. The draw resulted in Iran facing Egypt that day in Seattle. Both countries' football federations immediately objected, citing their cultural and religious values.
FIFA stated ahead of the match that there will be no restrictions on rainbow flags in the stands, emphasizing that the World Cup is an inclusive event welcoming people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
During the pre-match press conference, a FIFA representative announced that Iran's head coach Amir Galenoeis and goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand would only answer football-related questions.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino denied that this is a "Pride match," clarifying that the World Cup game and another organization's event happening on the same day are separate occurrences.
The match is a top-of-the-table clash in Group G, with Egypt on four points and Iran on two.
