Women's Soccer Players Protest FIFA Deal

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Above: Becky Sauerbrunn at BMO Stadium on March 03, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. Image copyright: Brad Smith/ISI Photos/USSF/Contributor/Getty Images Sport via Getty Images

The Facts

  • More than 100 women's soccer players from 24 countries, including Manchester City star 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.

  • 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.

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The Spin

Narrative A

It's unacceptable for women's soccer to be associated with a regime that restricts women's rights and criminalizes LGBTQ+ relationships. Even the act of advocating for women's rights and freedoms can lead to prison. FIFA must reject this form of "sportswashing" and prioritize ethical partnerships that align with the values of its athletes.

Guardian

Narrative B

The players should give this deal a chance to get off the ground. This partnership will bring significant financial benefits to the sport of soccer, especially at the grassroots level. Aramco's partnerships with other sports organizations have increased opportunities for athletes globally and positively influenced societies across the world.

Aramco