World Cup 2026: Hossam Hassan responds to LGBTQ+ controversy around Egypt vs Iran match

Egypt national team coach Hossam Hassan has addressed the growing discussion surrounding Pride Month activities planned around his side’s FIFA World Cup 2026 match against Iran in Seattle, insisting the team’s attention remains firmly on football.

Speaking during a pre-match press conference, Hassan adopted a calm and diplomatic approach when asked about the controversy surrounding celebrations near the stadium during the fixture.

“The pride activities during the match? We focus on football and respect all slogans… the slogan of respect, sportsmanship, and any slogan promoted by FIFA,” Hassan said.

The highly anticipated meeting between Egypt and Iran is scheduled for Sunday, June 28, and coincides with Seattle’s annual Pride celebrations. Local organisers have confirmed that the events will continue as planned despite concerns reportedly raised by officials from both the Egyptian and Iranian football federations.

Authorities in Seattle clarified that the celebrations are part of the city’s long-established June calendar and are not directly connected to the World Cup tournament.

The issue has generated widespread reactions online, particularly among supporters from Egypt and Iran, where LGBTQ+ matters remain culturally and religiously sensitive topics. Discussions across social media have intensified in recent days as attention builds ahead of the group stage encounter.

Rather than becoming drawn into the wider debate, Hassan maintained a measured tone throughout his remarks, choosing to emphasise sportsmanship and mutual respect while steering clear of criticism toward FIFA or local organisers.

On the pitch, the clash between Egypt and Iran is expected to be one of the marquee fixtures of the group stage as both nations continue their push for qualification to the knockout rounds of the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup.