Over a hundred professional female footballers from 24 different countries are urging FIFA to end its sponsorship agreement with Saudi oil giant Aramco. In an open letter addressed to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the players criticize the partnership with Aramco, calling it a “middle finger to women’s football.”
The letter expresses disappointment with FIFA’s decision, saying that naming Aramco as a “major” partner is a significant setback for the sport. It also raises concerns about the company’s impact on climate change and draws attention to the harsh conditions for the LGBTQ+ community in Saudi Arabia.
According to the letter, Saudi authorities not only restrict women’s rights but also limit the freedoms of all citizens. The regime’s heavy investment in sports sponsorships is seen as an attempt to cover up its poor human rights record, especially concerning women.
The letter ends by comparing the sponsorship to an own goal in football, suggesting FIFA might as well pour oil on the field and set it on fire.
Interestingly, among the players most vocal regarding this sponsorship is Dutch forward Vivianne Miedema, who plays for Manchester City which is in turn owned by Abu Dhabi royal Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
In April, FIFA revealed a partnership with Aramco, the world’s largest oil and gas company, which is 98.5% owned by the Saudi government. The deal, set to last until 2027, grants Aramco sponsorship rights for major events like the 2026 Men’s World Cup and the 2027 Women’s World Cup. Human rights groups have criticized Saudi Arabia for using sports sponsorships to improve its global image, a practice known as “sportswashing.”