Becky Sauerbrunn and over 100 women’s soccer players protest FIFA deal with Saudi oil giant Aramco
Associated PressOCT 2024
Women's Soccer Players Protest FIFA Deal
Above: Becky Sauerbrunn at BMO Stadium on March 03, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. Image copyright: Brad Smith/ISI Photos/USSF/Contributor/Getty Images Sport via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
It's unacceptable for women's soccer to be associated with a regime that restricts women's rights and criminalizes LGBTQ+ relationships. Even the act of advocating for women's rights and freedoms can lead to prison. FIFA must reject this form of "sportswashing" and prioritize ethical partnerships that align with the values of its athletes.
Narrative B
The players should give this deal a chance to get off the ground. This partnership will bring significant financial benefits to the sport of soccer, especially at the grassroots level. Aramco's partnerships with other sports organizations have increased opportunities for athletes globally and positively influenced societies across the world.