Amnesty International has issued a warning over Aston Villa's sponsorship deal with a company linked to the Saudi Arabian government, accusing the club of engaging in 'sportswashing'. The human rights organization urged the Premier League side to reconsider the partnership, which it says helps to distract from Saudi Arabia's poor human rights record.
Sponsorship deal under scrutiny
The deal, reportedly worth £20 million per year, sees the Saudi-based company's branding appear on Aston Villa's shirts. Amnesty International's UK director, Sacha Deshmukh, said: 'Aston Villa should not be helping the Saudi authorities to sportswash their appalling human rights record. We urge the club to reconsider this deal.'
What is sportswashing?
Sportswashing refers to the use of sports events or sponsorships to improve a country's international image, often to divert attention from human rights abuses. Saudi Arabia has faced widespread criticism for its treatment of women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and political dissidents, as well as its involvement in the war in Yemen.
Aston Villa's response
Aston Villa has defended the sponsorship, stating that it is a commercial agreement and that the club is committed to 'inclusivity and respect for all'. The club added that it regularly reviews its partnerships to ensure they align with its values.
Broader implications
The warning comes amid growing scrutiny of sports deals with countries accused of human rights abuses. Other Premier League clubs have also faced similar criticism, including Newcastle United's takeover by a Saudi-backed consortium. Amnesty International's call for Aston Villa to drop the deal highlights the increasing pressure on sports organizations to consider the ethical implications of their commercial partnerships.
