FIFA President Gianni Infantino
Redacción
Barcelona
FIFA solidified its partnership with Saudi Arabia through the announcement of a sponsorship agreement with the kingdom’s state-owned oil company, Aramco, on Thursday.
The agreement, widely anticipated, gained momentum particularly after Saudi Arabia secured its position as the host of the 2034 men’s World Cup in October last year.
This deal, extending until 2027, encompasses major FIFA tournaments including the 2026 men’s World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as the 2027 Women’s World Cup, the hosting rights for which will be determined next month.
While the financial specifics of the agreement were not disclosed, it is anticipated to be one of FIFA’s most lucrative deals in terms of average annual value. It may also encompass the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup scheduled to be held in the United States next year.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has cultivated a close relationship with Saudi Arabia and its Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman since before the 2018 World Cup. Notably, the 2018 tournament in Russia was sponsored by the state energy company, Gazprom.
The bidding process for the 2034 World Cup was unexpectedly opened in October last year, seemingly tailored to favor Saudi Arabia, with only FIFA member federations in Asia and Oceania permitted to participate. Saudi Arabia emerged as the sole candidate by the end of that month.
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