Emma Hayes criticizes the decision to allow Visit Saudi to sponsor the Women’s World Cup

Chelsea Women manager Emma Hayes has criticized the decision to allow Visit Saudi to sponsor the summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Saudi Arabia’s participation in the tournament has sparked interest given the country’s human rights record, which Amnesty International has described as “appalling”.

However, the 46-year-old has expressed her displeasure with the decision, showing it is an example of the work that still needs to be done in women’s football.

She said, “Ridiculous. It shouldn’t happen in any way, shape or form.

“It just goes to show how much work we have to do to educate those who play football about associations and why it matters.

“Feeling safe in what we do is absolutely crucial.

“It is hypocritical and undesirable at this stage to have major double standards just to make the sport grow.”

In Saudi Arabia, homosexuality and transgender status are considered immoral, while women in the nation also face discrimination.

According to FIFA, “women’s football is fairly new in Saudi Arabia”.

The Women’s World Cup will be held in Australia and New Zealand from July 2023.

GO DEEPER

Visit Saudi this summer to sponsor the FIFA Women’s World Cup

(Photo: Getty Images)