FIFA faces mounting pressure locally over Visit Saudi deal
The organisers of the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup have continued to face backlash from Australia and New Zealand’s football bodies over a reported sponsorship deal with Saudi Arabia’s tourism authority.
While FIFA is yet to directly address the rumoured deal, Football Australia and its key stakeholders have come to an “overwhelming consensus” that the partnership does not align with the collective vision for the 32-team tournament, which commences locally in July.
In a statement sent to Mumbrella, Football Australia chief executive James Johnson reiterated that the organisation had not been consulted by FIFA about “the prospect of this apparent partnership”.
“Football Australia has consulted on this matter with key stakeholders, including government and commercial partners, and it was an overwhelming consensus, that this partnership does not align with our collective vision for the tournament and falls short of our expectations,” the statement continued.
“Whilst the partnership has not been confirmed by FIFA, based on the consultations we have had with our community, key stakeholders and our own position, we would not be comfortable with it.
“While we await further clarity and information as to the details of the partnership from FIFA, we continue to convey this clear message on behalf of Football Australia, New Zealand Football, and our community.”
The broadcast rights for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 are held by Optus Sport, landing the winning bid for all 64 games in 2021, with the streaming service having previously streamed the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019. The free-to-air broadcast rights are being sublicensed by Network Seven.
FIFA had not responded to Mumbrella’s request for comment at the time of publication.
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