On October 21, more than 100 professional women’s soccer players sent an open letter to FIFA, urging the organization to end its partnership with Saudi Aramco, the oil and gas giant. FIFA had signed a four-year sponsorship deal with Aramco in April, which covers major events like the 2026 World Cup and the Women’s World Cup in 2027.
Saudi Arabia has been heavily investing in sports such as soccer, Formula One, and golf in recent years. However, critics, including women’s rights and LGBTQ advocacy groups, accuse the kingdom of “sportswashing”—using high-profile events to distract from its human rights issues. The country denies these allegations, stating that its laws are meant to protect national security.
Among the signatories of the letter were Manchester City striker Vivianne Miedema, Canada’s team captain Jessie Fleming, and former U.S. captain Becky Sauerbrunn. “We urge FIFA to reconsider this partnership and seek sponsors who support gender equality, human rights, and a sustainable future,” the letter stated.
FIFA, in defense of the deal, noted that sponsorship revenues are reinvested into the sport at all levels, pointing to increased investment in women’s soccer, including the 2023 Women’s World Cup and its new distribution model. An Aramco representative said the company would respond to the letter as soon as possible.