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FIFA, the international governing body for soccer, has sealed a groundbreaking deal, making Saudi Arabian oil titan Aramco its major global partner in a strategic move that places the energy company at the forefront of world soccer.
This partnership, running until the end of 2027, positions Aramco as the exclusive energy category sponsor for several marquee FIFA events, including the 2026 Men's World Cup and the 2027 Women's World Cup.
A Lucrative Deal Short of Expectations
While initial speculations last year anticipated a lengthy partnership extending to the 2034 World Cup, potentially coinciding with Saudi Arabia's bid to host the tournament, the contract duration has been set until 2027. Despite falling short of the speculated $100 million annual deal, this collaboration emerges as one of FIFA's most significant commercial partnerships.
Aramco Joins Elite FIFA Global Partners
According to Sportcal, Aramco has become FIFA's sixth global partner, joining an elite group that includes Adidas, Coca-Cola, Qatar Airways, Hyundai, and Visa. FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting it as a catalyst for delivering FIFA's flagship tournaments while extending enhanced support to its 211 member associations worldwide.
Infantino also commended Aramco's commitment to world-class events and grassroots sports initiatives.
Expanding Aramco's Sports Sponsorship Portfolio
A press release noted that the agreement with FIFA marks Aramco's ambitious foray into soccer. It adds to its growing sports sponsorship portfolio, which already includes significant partnerships with Formula 1, the International Cricket Council, and the Indian Premier League.
This move indicates Aramco's broader strategy to gain prominence in the global sports arena. It previously aligned with motor racing's Formula 1 and ventured into cricket sponsorships.
Anticipating a Saudi World Cup in 2034
This partnership arrives amidst FIFA's exploratory efforts to engage other major Saudi businesses as potential partners for a future Saudi-hosted World Cup in 2034. Saudi Arabia solidified its position as the sole bidder for the 2034 World Cup following Australia's withdrawal, setting the stage for the Middle East's second World Cup after Qatar's historic hosting in 2022.
With this strategic alliance, FIFA and Aramco aim to leverage their respective global platforms to promote soccer and innovation in the energy sector worldwide.
Photo: PR Newswire
