The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) has reportedly issued a list of 10 demands to FIFA before Iran participates in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- +Iran sets 10 demands for FIFA ahead of 2026 World Cup
- +Ban on Pride flags among key demands
At the centre of the controversy is the designated “Pride Match” against Egypt, scheduled for June 26, 2026, in Seattle.
At the centre of the controversy is the designated “Pride Match” against Egypt, scheduled for June 26, 2026, in Seattle.
According to reports, the Iranian football federation told FIFA it would compete in the tournament “without any retreat from our beliefs, culture and convictions” and insisted that organisers “must take our concerns into account.”
The demands reportedly followed an incident in April when FFIRI president Mehdi Taj was denied entry into Canada ahead of the FIFA Congress in Vancouver.
Ban on Pride flags among key demands
One of Iran’s key requests is that only officially recognised national flags be allowed inside stadiums, a move that would effectively prohibit LGBTQ+ Pride flags during matches involving the Iranian national team.
Iran is also reportedly seeking visa guarantees for players and officials, alongside enhanced security measures throughout the tournament.
The planned “Pride Match” will take place during the anniversary weekend of the Stonewall riots, a major event in LGBTQ+ history commemorated across North America.
The fixture has already sparked controversy among participating nations.
The Egyptian Football Association had earlier written to FIFA requesting that any association with LGBTQ+ activism be avoided during the event, citing religious and social values.
Under Egyptian law, same-sex relationships are not explicitly criminalised, but authorities have historically used laws against “habitual debauchery” to prosecute LGBTQ+ individuals, with punishments ranging from six months to three years in prison.
Iran, meanwhile, maintains some of the world’s strictest laws regarding same-sex relations, with severe penalties under its legal system.
Eric Wahl, a member of the advisory committee for the 2026 World Cup “Pride Match,” urged FIFA to balance inclusion with cultural sensitivities.
“I can’t anticipate what FIFA will do; I hope they do the right thing,” Wahl told BBC Sport.
“We haven’t heard from them, and I am a little surprised they have not reached out, but in general FIFA’s approach is respectful silence; that’s good.”
“With regards to issues like human rights, they will stay out,” he added.
In a statement, organisers described the “Pride Match” as “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”.
