The 2026 World Cup has assigned an LGBTQ-themed match to Iran, where being gay is punishable by death. Seattle was named as one of the host cities over three years ago, and a match set to be played there on 26 June has now been designated a “Pride” match. Following Friday’s draw and Saturday’s fixture allocation, it has been confirmed that the match will be played by Egypt and Iran, both countries with awful LGBTQ+ records. Quoting the local FIFA organising committee FOX 13 Seattle reported on 7 December that the match is a “rare opportunity to make a lasting impact, one that educates the world, inspires our LGBTQ+ community, and uplifts those businesses and cultural organizations”. #WorldCup #LGBTQNews #LGBTQSafety However, same-sex activity between men and women is outlawed in Iran and punishable by death. The regressive laws mean many LGBTQ+ Iranians look for asylum in other countries. 📷 Getty