LGBTQ+ ‘Pride Match’ Scheduled for 2026 World Cup Features Nations Where Homosexuality is Criminalized

Match Details and Location

A match identified as an LGBTQ+ ‘Pride Match’ during the 2026 World Cup will involve two countries where same-sex relations are illegal. The local organizing committee in Seattle, one of the host cities for the upcoming FIFA tournament next summer, has announced that this event will take place at Lumen Field on June 26, 2026, highlighting celebrations for the LGBTQ+ community.

Planning and Fixture Allocation

The organization of this initiative occurred prior to the selection of the competing teams or the execution of the draw for the 2026 World Cup. Following the draw on Friday and the allocation of fixtures on Saturday, it has been officially confirmed that the June 26 match in Seattle will feature a Group G clash between Egypt and Iran.

Legal Context

In Iran, engaging in homosexual acts can result in the death penalty, while in Egypt, laws related to morality are often enforced to target and undermine the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.