FIFA Silent on Saudi Aramco Partnership despite Player Concerns
More than five months after over 100 professional female footballers penned an open letter to FIFA, the association has yet to respond to concerns regarding its partnership with Saudi Aramco, according to Republic of Ireland attacker Kyra Carusa.
Controversial Partnership Fuels Sportswashing Accusations
In April, FIFA entered a four-year agreement making the oil and gas giant a worldwide partner, including for the 2027 WomenS World cup in Brazil. The deal has drawn criticism due to Saudi Arabia’s extensive investments in sports, including Formula One and golf, which have been labeled “sportswashing” by human rights groups and members of the LGBTQ community who cite the nation’s human rights record. Saudi Arabia denies these accusations.
Carusa Highlights Moral Concerns and Accountability
“Unfortunately no,” Carusa stated when asked if FIFA had acknowledged the letter. She emphasized the moral implications of aligning with entities whose values may not prioritize women and questioned the accountability of organizations leveraging women’s sports to promote broader agendas.
“It’s meaningful to recognize that there is accountability to be held. Just as you want to put women’s players on a pedestal doesn’t take over the fact what is being pushed or an agenda that’s being pushed, kind of the fact that women aren’t necessarily a priority,” she explained.
Ireland Aims to Rebound After Defeat
Carusa and the Republic of Ireland team are looking to bounce back after a 4-0 defeat against Slovenia in February. They are scheduled to face Greece.
“There are a lot of variables we can’t control and but what we can control is what we should be controlling,” Carusa added.
The team aims to address thier shortcomings and demonstrate a higher standard of performance in their upcoming match.
What action are the female footballers hoping FIFA will take in response to their concerns about the Saudi Aramco partnership?
FIFA Silent on Saudi Aramco Partnership despite Player Concerns
More than five months after over 100 professional female footballers penned an open letter to FIFA, the association has yet to respond to concerns regarding its partnership with Saudi Aramco, according to Republic of Ireland attacker Kyra Carusa.
Controversial partnership Fuels Sportswashing Accusations
In April, FIFA entered a four-year agreement making the oil and gas giant a worldwide partner, including for the 2027 WomenS World cup in Brazil. The deal has drawn criticism due to Saudi ArabiaS extensive investments in sports, including Formula One and golf, which have been labeled “sportswashing” by human rights groups and members of the LGBTQ community who cite the nation’s human rights record. Saudi arabia denies these accusations.
Carusa Highlights Moral Concerns and Accountability
“Regrettably no,” Carusa stated when asked if FIFA had acknowledged the letter.She emphasized the moral implications of aligning with entities whose values may not prioritize women and questioned the accountability of organizations leveraging women’s sports to promote broader agendas.
“It’s meaningful to recognize that there is accountability to be held. Just as you want to put women’s players on a pedestal doesn’t take over the fact what is being pushed or an agenda that’s being pushed, kind of the fact that women aren’t necessarily a priority,” she explained.
Ireland Aims to Rebound After Defeat
Carusa and the Republic of Ireland team are looking to bounce back after a 4-0 defeat against Slovenia in February. They are scheduled to face Greece.
“There are a lot of variables we can’t control and but what we can control is what we should be controlling,” Carusa added.
The team aims to address thier shortcomings and demonstrate a higher standard of performance in their upcoming match.
Q&A: unpacking the FIFA-Saudi Aramco Controversy
- Why are female footballers concerned about the FIFA-Saudi Aramco partnership?
- They are worried about ”sportswashing,” the practise of using sports to improve a contry’s reputation, especially when that country has a questionable human rights record. Concerns center around the values of the partner not aligning with the values of women’s sports.
- What is “sportswashing” and why is it relevant here?
- “Sportswashing” involves investing in sports to distract from or improve a nation’s image,especially regarding human rights.Critics accuse Saudi Arabia of sportswashing to divert attention from its human rights record.
- What is Kyra Carusa’s role in this situation?
- Kyra Carusa, a Republic of Ireland attacker, has publicly voiced concerns about the partnership on behalf of the players. She highlights the moral implications and the need for accountability from FIFA. Her words echo the sentiments of many other players.
- What is the Republic of Ireland team’s current focus?
- They are focusing on improving their performance after a recent defeat and preparing for their upcoming match against Greece. Their goal is to concentrate on what they can control on the field.
- What can fans do?
- Fans can educate themselves on the issues, support athletes who speak out, and make informed choices about the sports they follow and support. Consider researching the human rights records of countries and organizations involved in sports.
The silence from FIFA underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in the world of sports. Follow the Republic of Ireland team as they strive for better performance and continue to speak up for what they believe in.
