More than 100 international women soccer players condemn FIFA’s partnership with Saudi Aramco, citing severe human rights violations and environmental concerns. They urge FIFA to reconsider the sponsorship, which they believe contradicts the values of equality and inclusion central to soccer. Key players highlight the risks faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Saudi Arabia and demand a review of FIFA’s sponsorship decision.
In a powerful open letter, over a hundred international women soccer players are urging FIFA to reassess its sponsorship agreement with Saudi Aramco, the state-owned oil giant. They express deep concern that this partnership, viewed as a betrayal to women’s soccer, highlights grotesque human rights abuses against women and the LGBTQ+ community in Saudi Arabia. The athletes argue that supporting Aramco contradicts the sport’s core values of equality and inclusion.
FIFA’s sponsorship deal with Saudi Aramco, spanning until 2027, includes backing for both upcoming Men’s and Women’s World Cups. This connection to an entity that flagrantly violates human rights, especially against feminists and sexual minorities, has ignited controversy. Additional worries stem from Saudi Aramco’s significant environmental footprint, especially given its position as the world’s largest oil producer. Such dynamics raise crucial questions about accountability and the responsibilities of organizations like FIFA in choosing sponsors that align with their stated values.
The collective voice of these players calls for urgent action, compelling FIFA to reflect on the moral implications of their sponsorship choices. They question whether financial benefits are worth compromising human rights and environmental health. As they advocate for a review of such partnerships with true representation, the message is clear: players will not remain silent while the spirit of the game is undermined.
Original Source: www.cbc.ca
