Female Soccer Players Asks FIFA to Drop Saudi’s Aramco Deal for being Anti – LGBTQ+
More than 100 female soccer players have voiced their disapproval of FIFA’s recent sponsorship deal with Saudi Arabia’s state-owned oil company, Aramco.
This partnership, established in April and set to run until 2027, grants Aramco sponsorship rights for major upcoming events, including the men’s World Cup in 2026 and the Women’s World Cup in 2027.
The players, representing a diverse array of nations, have labeled the agreement a “kick in the gut” for women’s soccer, citing concerns over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.
The open letter, published by the advocacy group Athletes of the World, directly addresses FIFA President Gianni Infantino. It highlights the Saudi government’s ongoing violations of women’s rights and the repression faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
Vivianne Miedema, a prominent player for Manchester City and one of the signatories, stated that this sponsorship contradicts both FIFA’s values and those upheld by female athletes.
She emphasized that as representatives of the sport, they have a duty to advocate for justice and equality.
Critics argue that Saudi Arabia is engaging in “sportswashing,” using its financial investments in sports to distract from its poor human rights record.
The letter points out that while FIFA promotes inclusivity, its association with Aramco undermines these principles. The players are calling for FIFA to reconsider its partnership with Aramco and seek sponsors whose values align more closely with gender equality and human rights.
In response to the backlash, FIFA reiterated its commitment to the partnership, asserting that funds generated from sponsorships are reinvested into women’s football at all levels.
The organization has also announced plans to establish committees focused on women’s football, although these initiatives are still in development.
The letter has garnered significant attention and support from various advocacy groups, emphasizing that the players’ collective voice carries more weight than any public relations campaign.
They argue that young girls aspiring to play soccer deserve better representation from their governing body than an affiliation with a corporation linked to human rights abuses and environmental degradation.
The players’ appeal underscores a growing movement within sports to hold governing bodies accountable for their partnerships and ensure that they reflect values of equality and sustainability.
As FIFA navigates this controversy, it faces increasing pressure to align its sponsorship strategies with the ethical standards expected by athletes and fans alike.
