World Cup 'Pride Match': FIFA refuses to ban rainbow flags despite Iran, Egypt objections

According to France 24, FIFA has rejected calls from Iran and Egypt to ban rainbow flags at their World Cup match in Seattle this Friday. It's a notable shift from the twenty twenty-two tournament in Qatar, where LGBTQ-plus displays were restricted. This time, FIFA's Code of Conduct explicitly permits rainbow flags at all World Cup games. While FIFA has distanced itself from Seattle's surrounding Pride celebrations, it's made clear that the flags themselves are allowed in the stadium. The decision reflects an updated FIFA approach to LGBTQ-plus inclusion in international football, despite objections from countries with more restrictive stances.

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