The letter, published by Athletes of the World, criticizes FIFA's four-year global partnership with Aramco, which includes sponsorship rights for the 2026 men's World Cup and the 2027 Women's World Cup.

Independent

Players express concerns about Saudi Arabia's human rights record, particularly regarding women's rights and LGBTQ+ issues, as well as Aramco's environmental impact as a major greenhouse gas emitter.

FIFA defends the partnership, stating that commercial revenues are reinvested into the development of the women's game and that Aramco is an inclusive organization with many commercial partners.

The letter describes the Aramco deal as a "stomach punch" for the women's game and proposes the establishment of a review committee with player representation to evaluate the ethical implications of future sponsorship deals.

Saudi Arabia has previously pushed back against allegations of "sportswashing," with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stating that he doesn't care about such accusations if investments increase the country's GDP.

Women's Soccer Players Protest FIFA Deal

Saudi Arabia

Netherlands

Sports

FIFA's partnership with Aramco brings significant financial benefits to the sport, including increased investment in women's soccer. The organization is inclusive and works with many commercial partners across various industries. Saudi Arabia is making progress in modernizing its society, and engagement through sports can help promote positive change.

Vivianne Miedema among 100 women’s footballers urging Fifa to end Saudi oil deal

Women's Soccer Stars Urge FIFA to Drop Saudi Aramco Deal

Videos

Apps

Women's Soccer Stars Urge FIFA to Drop Saudi Aramco Deal

Women's Soccer PlayersStars ProtestUrge FIFA to Drop Saudi Aramco Deal

The Facts

The Spin

Sign up to our daily newsletter