Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has firmly denied reports suggesting that the national team might take part in an LGBTQ-support celebration during the Egypt–Iran match at the 2025 FIFA World Cup in the United States. The clarification follows a wave of media claims published in recent hours by international outlets, including the BBC and Spain’s Marca, alleging that a major pro-LGBTQ event had been scheduled to coincide with the fixture.
A senior EFA official, dismissed the idea outright, saying the federation would not engage in any activity that contradicts Egyptian cultural and social values. “We completely refuse to participate in any celebratory displays during the Egypt–Iran match,” the official said. “Our customs and traditions reject this matter in form and substance. We will not involve our players in any such activities.”
The source added that the EFA has not received any official communication from FIFA or the World Cup organizing committee indicating that such an event would take place. “If we receive formal notification, we will immediately respond with a complete refusal to participate in any way,” he emphasized.
Reports circulating in international sports media had claimed that a large-scale LGBTQ solidarity event was planned for several matches, including Egypt’s meeting with Iran, and that the initiative had been proposed even before the World Cup draw was conducted. The allegations sparked debate on social media and prompted inquiries to the Egyptian federation.
The EFA’s swift denial reflects longstanding sensitivities in Egypt and much of the Middle East surrounding LGBTQ-related themes in sports and public events. It also underscores the broader challenges FIFA faces when global tournaments involve teams from countries with sharply differing cultural norms and legal frameworks.
The 2025 World Cup, set to be hosted across multiple American cities, will feature expanded participation and a series of promotional initiatives. However, with the EFA’s firm position now publicly stated, involvement of the Egyptian national team in any form of LGBTQ-themed celebration appears definitively off the table.
