WORLD CUP | FIFA allows rainbow flags at Egypt-Iran match in Seattle despite objections

FIFA said fans will be allowed to display rainbow flags at Friday’s World Cup match between Egypt and Iran at Lumen Field in Seattle, despite objections from both countries, where homosexuality is criminalized. The Group G game falls during Seattle’s annual Pride weekend and was designated a “Pride Match” by the local organizing committee before the tournament draw paired the teams, according to Yahoo Sports. After the draw, Egypt’s Football Association said Pride-related activities conflicted with the country’s cultural and religious values, and Iran’s federation asked that no Pride-linked ceremonies or promotional activities be inside the stadium. FIFA said the World Cup is “an inclusive event” and that general human-rights statements, including rainbow flags and other flags representing sexual orientation and gender identity, are permitted inside stadiums, while noting the Pride celebrations are organized by Seattle’s host committee rather than FIFA.