World Cup ‘Pride Match’ To Feature Two Nations With Anti-LGBTQ Laws

Potential problems have arisen for the designated 'Pride Match' at the World Cup as it will involve two nations with strict anti-LGBTQ laws.

The draw for the showpiece in North America was made on Friday night, before the official schedule was released a day later.

A total of 104 fixtures will take place across the United States, Mexico and Canada for the 48-team tournament, kicking off on 11 June and ending with the final in New Jersey on 19 July.

But the spotlight has been placed on one of the World Cup group fixtures which is set for June 26 - two days before the anniversary of the Stonewall riots.

In the third and final matchday in Group G, Egypt and Iran will face off in Seattle at Lumen Field.

The Emerald City will kick off Pride weekend with the game, which was planned in advance of the draw and the allocated teams.

Lumen Field will stage the game on June 26. Image: Getty

However, the scheduling means it will feature two fixtures where homosexuality is illegal - with the death penalty among the potential punishments for same-sex relationships in Iran.

Following on from the fiasco where the OneLove armband was banned last year, there are fears it could bring serious issues with FIFA.

However, it appears as though those involved are not being deterred and will proceed with the original plan of celebrating Pride.

The Pride Match has been scheduled to celebrate and elevate Pride events in Seattle and across the country, and it was planned well in advance.

"It is a host city–led expression of Seattle and Washington State’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone belongs: players, fans, residents, and visitors alike,’ Seattle’s Pride Match Advisory Committee told Outsports, as per the Daily Mail.

"Soccer has a unique power to unite people across borders, cultures, and beliefs. We are honoured to host a Pride Match and to celebrate Pride as part of a global football community. This match reflects our ongoing commitment to respect, dignity, and unity for all."

Eric Wahl, a member of the committee and an out gay man, believes the match and the teams present could be a positive thing to promote inclusivity.

Taking to X, he wrote: "The Egypt v Iran match in Seattle in June just happens to be the Pride match, & I think that is a good thing, actually. (There are LGBTQAI+ people everywhere. All are welcome to be themselves in Seattle)."

Seattle is known for celebrating Pride month. Image: Getty

It's claimed that any plans for the event do not have involvement or input from FIFA.

Democratic mayor-elect of Seattle Katie Wilson, who will be in office ahead of the tournament reacted to news of the fixture's confirmation, writing: "We get to show the world that in Seattle, everyone is welcome. What an incredible honor for our city!”

Seattle will host a total of six games in the World Cup, including a round of 32 clash and a last 16 fixture.

SPORTbible have approached Iran, Egypt and FIFA for comment.