Women Soccer Players Demand FIFA End Partnership with Saudi Oil Company

Over 100 female soccer players have united in an open letter to FIFA, urging the governing body of world football to terminate its sponsorship agreement with Saudi Arabia’s oil giant, Aramco. The partnership, announced in April, grants Aramco sponsorship rights for major upcoming events, including the 2026 Men’s World Cup and the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

The letter, signed by 108 current and former players globally, describes the deal as a “stomach punch” for women’s soccer, emphasizing the troubling human rights record of Saudi Arabia. Published on the advocacy group Athletes of the World’s website, the letter features prominent figures like Manchester City striker Vivianne Miedema and former U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) captain Becky Sauerbrunn.

In their message to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the players highlighted the oppressive environment in Saudi Arabia, stating, “The Saudi authorities trample not only on the rights of women but on the freedom of all other citizens too.” They expressed particular concern for LGBTQ+ players, questioning the implications of promoting a company tied to a regime that criminalizes their relationships and values.

While homosexuality remains illegal in Saudi Arabia, the country has attempted to present a more welcoming image to LGBTQ+ tourists, leading to skepticism about its true intentions.

Miedema commented on the responsibility female soccer players have to advocate for justice. She stated, “I think as footballers, and especially as women’s footballers, we carry the responsibility to show the world and the next generation what is right. This sponsorship is not right for what FIFA stands for, but also what we as women footballers stand for.”

FIFA responded to the open letter, affirming its appreciation for the partnership with Aramco and emphasizing its commitment to inclusivity. A FIFA spokesperson said, “Sponsorship revenues generated by FIFA are reinvested back into the game at all levels, and investment in women’s football continues to increase.”

Aramco did not provide a comment when approached by CNN. The company, along with Saudi Arabia, has faced accusations of “sportswashing,” a term used to describe the strategy of using sports events to distract from negative issues within a country. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has dismissed these allegations, indicating a willingness to engage in practices perceived as sportswashing if they contribute to economic growth.

The players’ letter also addresses environmental concerns, stating that Aramco is “one of the corporations most responsible for burning football’s future.” As the largest oil and gas company in the world by revenue and production, Aramco’s practices contribute significantly to climate change. The letter notes that extreme weather conditions threaten grassroots football, citing issues like droughts and floods exacerbated by climate change.

While Aramco maintains a commitment to environmental protection, independent analyses have labeled it the “world’s largest corporate greenhouse gas emitter.” A 2023 report by the think tank Carbon Tracker criticized Aramco’s climate pledges as insufficient compared to its peers in the industry.

The players called on FIFA to reconsider its partnership with Aramco and seek alternative sponsors aligned with values of gender equality, human rights, and environmental stewardship. The letter concludes with a proposal for a review committee that includes player representation, aimed at assessing the ethical implications of future sponsorship deals to ensure they reflect the values of the sport.

FIFA indicated that it has established several standing committees for women’s soccer, including a Women’s Players Committee, in an effort to incorporate player perspectives into decision-making.

As this issue gains traction, the solidarity demonstrated by these players underscores a growing movement within sports to prioritize ethical considerations and social responsibility. The push to end FIFA’s partnership with Aramco is not just about a sponsorship deal; it’s a broader call for accountability in the realm of sports, encouraging organizations to reflect the values of inclusivity, human rights, and sustainability that resonate with players and fans alike.