Women's Soccer Players Protest FIFA Deal

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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.[1][2]
  • 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.[3]
  • The players expressed 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.[1][3]
  • The letter describes the Aramco deal as a 'stomach punch' for the women's game and proposes the establishment of a 'review committee,' which would include players, to review the ethical implications of sponsorships.[4]
  • FIFA defended its partnership with Aramco, saying through a spokesperson that commercial revenues are reinvested into the development of the women's game at every level.[5]
  • Previously, Saudi Arabia has pushed back against allegations of so-called 'sportswashing,' with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stating that he doesn't care about such accusations if investments increase the country's gross domestic product.[3]

Sources: [1]Independent, [2]Associated Press, [3]CNN, [4]Nine and [5]BBC News.

Narratives

  • Narrative A, as provided by Guardian. 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.
  • Narrative B, as provided by Aramco. 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.