Seattle's Pride Month celebrations took a dramatic turn as a sea of rainbow flags was vastly outnumbered by supporters of the Saudi Arabian national soccer team. The team, which has been making headlines in recent weeks due to its highly publicized match against Argentina, had a significant following in the city as they took on the Netherlands in a crucial World Cup match. As fans gathered at Lumen Field to show their team spirit, the usual Pride Month colors were largely overshadowed by the lion-and-sun banners and tricolor facepaint of the Saudi Arabian supporters. The unexpected clash highlights the complexities of identity and community in the city.


Local organizers hoped rainbow flags would fill Lumen Field. They were largely outnumbered by lion-and-sun banners and tricolor facepaint.