FIFA Announces Major Sponsorship Deal With Saudi Energy Titan Aramco

Saudi Arabia’s Aramco, a global energy powerhouse, and FIFA, the world football governing body, have announced a significant sponsorship agreement that extends until the end of 2027. This deal marks a milestone in Saudi Arabia's growing investment in global sports, further emphasised by its exclusive bid to host the 2034 World Cup.

FIFA Welcomes Aramco as Major Worldwide Partner
"We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to Aramco as a valued addition to FIFA’s global partner network," expressed FIFA president Gianni Infantino in a joint statement issued by the energy company.

“This partnership will assist FIFA to successfully deliver its flagship tournaments over the next four years and, as is the case with all our commercial agreements, enable us to provide enhanced support to our 211 FIFA member associations across the globe.

“Aramco has a strong track record of supporting world-class events, but also a focus on developing grassroots sport initiatives.

“We look forward to collaborating with them on a variety of initiatives over the coming years.”

Aramco's Commitment to Sports Development
Aramco’s involvement in this sponsorship agreement signifies not only its support for world-class events but also its dedication to grassroots sport initiatives. FIFA's collaboration with Aramco is poised to bolster football development globally, with a focus on enhancing support for FIFA’s 211 member associations worldwide.

Navigating Criticisms: Addressing Sportswashing Allegations
This high-profile partnership comes amidst criticisms levelled at Saudi Arabia for 'sportswashing' allegations, aimed at deflecting attention from alleged human rights abuses. Despite these controversies, Saudi Arabia’s investment in sports has seen significant growth, with initiatives ranging from financing Premier League club Newcastle United to hosting international golf tournaments.

Saudi Arabia’s Sports Investment Landscape

Saudi Arabia's sports investment portfolio extends beyond football, encompassing ventures in tennis, Formula One, heavyweight boxing, horse racing, and more. Notably, Riyadh is set to host the Asian Games in 2034, aligning with its ambition to position itself as a hub for global sporting events.

Aramco's Vision for Impactful Partnerships
"Through this collaboration with FIFA, our objective is to contribute to the advancement of football and utilise the influence of sports to create a global impact," stated Aramco CEO Amin H. Nasser.

“It reflects our ambition to enable vibrant communities and extends our backing of sport as a platform for growth.”

Nasser highlighted their engagement with the Saudi football team Al-Qadsiah, the Aramco Team Series in women’s golf, and efforts to raise awareness of scientific subjects in schools as examples showcasing the potential of such partnerships to pave the way for opportunities, positively influence society, and foster grassroots development.