World football governing body, FIFA, has signed a multi-year partnership deal with Saudi Arabia state-owned oil company Aramco, the federation announced on Thursday.

According to the BBC, the deal with Aramco is until 2027, covering the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico and the FIFA Women’s World Cup the following year.

Commenting on the partnership, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said, “Aramco has a strong track record of supporting world-class events and a focus on developing grassroots sports initiatives.”

Aramco is now putting its prints in football after the company’s sponsorship deals within Formula One and the partnership with the International Cricket Federation.

However, the partnership between FIFA and Aramco is not expected to be without kickbacks from some public sections, with Saudi Arabia facing accusations of sportswashing over recent investment in football.

Critics said the Gulf country is trying to improve its international image while failing to deal with allegations of ‘human rights violations’ at home.

Saudi Arabia is already the confirmed host for the 2030 FIFA World Cup after the country emerged as the sole bidder to stage the tournament.