Women’s football – criticism of World Cup sponsor Saudi Arabia – Sport

Co-hosts Australia have spoken out against the Saudi Arabian Tourism Authority as a sponsor of the Women’s World Cup (20 July to 20 August). Officials of the Australian association hope that the world association Fifa will give up plans. “Football Australia has consulted with key stakeholders – including government and commercial partners – on this matter and there was an overwhelming consensus that this partnership is not in line with our collective vision for the tournament and falls short of our expectations,” said Football Australia chief executive James Johnson. Australia and New Zealand recently asked Fifa for “urgent clarification” over reports that Saudi Arabia would be the official sponsor of the tournament. However, there is still no answer.