FIFA Seals Multimillion Dollar Deal with Saudi Arabia: The Newest Major Sponsor for Soccer World Cups.

FIFA has strengthened its relationship with Saudi Arabia by officially announcing a sponsorship deal with the kingdom’s state oil company, Aramco. This partnership was expected to happen once Saudi Arabia was named the host of the 2034 men’s World Cup last October. The agreement extends until 2027 and includes major soccer events such as 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 2027 tournament will be chosen next month. The financial details of the deal were not disclosed but it is believed to be one of the most lucrative sponsorships in FIFA’s history in terms of annual value. It may also cover the new 32-team Club World Cup set to take place in the U.S. next year.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has developed a close relationship with Saudi Arabia and its Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, dating back to before the 2018 World Cup in Russia which was sponsored by state-owned energy company Gazprom. The bidding process for the 2034 men’s World Cup was opened unexpectedly last October, with only FIFA member federations from Asia and Oceania allowed to compete, almost ensuring Saudi Arabia’s victory.

The Visit Saudi tourist board was a minor sponsor of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar but faced backlash from organizers in Australia and New Zealand when it came to sponsoring