Saudi Aramco’s Partnership with FIFA Sparks Concerns over Human Rights in Kingdom.

Saudi Aramco, a state-owned fossil fuel company, has recently been announced as a four-year global partnership with FIFA. This partnership will see Saudi Aramco sponsor the 2026 men’s World Cup as well as the Women’s World Cup in 2027. However, this news has prompted concerns from Amnesty International about the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia.

Amnesty International’s Head of Economic and Social Justice, Steve Cockburn, highlighted the imprisonment of women such as Salma al-Shehab and Manahel al-Otaibi for peacefully advocating for gender equality. He also raised the issue of Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 men’s World Cup, calling for urgent action to address the country’s human rights record.

The organization is urging FIFA to create binding agreements with Saudi Arabia to protect people from exploitation and discrimination before finalizing any hosting agreements. Saudi Aramco has faced criticism for its role in financing the country’s human rights abuses through sports washing. Amnesty International called on Saudi Arabia to support the phasing out of the fossil fuel industry and transition to renewable energy to prevent further climate harm.

Saudi Arabia has heavily invested in sports globally, including golf, football, motorsports, and martial arts. The government and Public Investment Fund own over 98% of Saudi Aramco, making it a major source of income and influence for the Kingdom. While the 2026 men’s World Cup will be held in North America, the location of the 2027 women’s tournament is yet to be determined.