FIFA Partners with Aramco for Sponsorship Deal Extending Their Partnership through 2027

FIFA has announced a sponsorship deal with Saudi Arabia’s state oil company, Aramco, to extend its partnership with the kingdom through 2027. The agreement will include multiple major FIFA tournaments, including the 2026 men’s World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as the 2027 Women’s World Cup. The hosts for the Women’s World Cup will be determined next month.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has developed a strong rapport with Saudi Arabia and its Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman since well before the 2018 World Cup. Notably, the 2034 bidding process was tailored in a way that appeared to heavily favor Saudi Arabia, with only member federations from Asia and Oceania allowed to participate. By the end of October, Saudi Arabia emerged as the sole candidate for the 2034 hosting rights.

The specific financial terms of the deal were not disclosed but it is believed to be one of the most lucrative agreements for FIFA in terms of average annual value. It may also include the upcoming 32-team Club World Cup scheduled to be held in the United States next year. This announcement comes just months after Saudi Arabia was selected as host for the 2034 men’s World Cup last October.

In addition to Aramco’s new sponsorship deal with FIFA, it is worth noting that this is not their first time working together. In fact, Visit Saudi had a minor sponsorship role in Qatar during the 2018 FIFA World Cup and even had an active role in promoting tourism across many countries during COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns period last year