Iran and FIFA refuse to answer questions about Seattle’s World Cup ‘Pride Match’ vs. Egypt

AI Summary

Iran and FIFA officials declined to answer questions regarding Seattle’s World Cup match between Iran and Egypt, dubbed a ‘Pride Match’ occurring during LGBTQ+ celebrations. Both countries are known for repressive policies against LGBTQ+ individuals, adding controversy as the host city honors the LGBTQ+ community.

Before coach Amir Ghalenoei or goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand answered any questions Thursday ahead of Iran’s World Cup match with Egypt, a FIFA official spoke up. Daniel Marin, FIFA's executive director of public relations, read a statement in light of the teams meeting in a “Pride Match” in Seattle on Friday. Egypt and Iran are two of the most repressive places in the world for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, but they coincidentally will play each other while the host city honors the LGBTQ+ community.