Women's Soccer Players Protest FIFA Deal
Women's Soccer StarsPlayers UrgeProtest FIFA to Drop Saudi Aramco Deal
The Facts
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.More than 100 women's soccer players from 24 countries, including Netherlands forward Vivianne Miedema and former US national team captain Becky Sauerbrunn, have signed an open letter urging FIFA to end its sponsorship deal with Saudi Arabian oil company Aramco.
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.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.
The Spin
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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.