Saudi oil giant invests over a billion in sportswashing efforts

Saudi Arabia is investing over $1.3 billion in global sports sponsorships as part of its strategy to enhance its international image and establish itself as a global superpower. This initiative aligns with the country's Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify its economy beyond oil dependency. The report from the New Weather Institute highlights that this trend of 'sportswashing' is not unique to Saudi Arabia, as other fossil fuel companies are also engaging in similar practices to improve their public perception. The term 'sportswashing' refers to the use of sports sponsorship to divert attention from negative aspects such as human rights violations and environmental concerns. Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince has openly stated that if these efforts can boost the country's GDP, they will continue despite criticisms. The report indicates that major sporting events, including the potential hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup and the 2036 Summer Olympics, are part of this broader strategy. The report also notes that other fossil fuel companies, including TotalEnergies and Shell, have collectively invested at least $5.6 billion in sports sponsorships. This trend raises concerns among experts who argue that such sponsorships could undermine climate action and promote the very industries contributing to climate change. To combat this issue, the report calls for sports organizations to implement stricter regulations on sponsorships from fossil fuel companies, similar to the bans on tobacco sponsorships. The authors emphasize the need for transparency regarding the environmental credentials of sponsors to ensure that sports do not become a platform for promoting harmful practices.