Leading Fifa sponsors Sony are putting pressure on the football governing body to conduct an appropriate investigation into allegations surrounding the way in which Qatar secured the 2022 World Cup. Fresh allegations have been made in the Sunday Times today.
Leading Fifa sponsors Sony are putting pressure on the football governing body to conduct an appropriate investigation into allegations surrounding the way in which Qatar secured the 2022 World Cup. Fresh allegations have been made in the Sunday Times today.
Another leading Fifa partner, adidas, have now added their voice to the complaints being made. They note that the negative tenor of the debate is not good either for Fifa or their partners.
A further three of the six main sponsors, making five in all, have issued statements on the matter. However, what BP, Coca-Cola and Visa have to say is more cautious and expresses confidence in Fifa’s ablility to sort matters out which is arguably a misplaced home given their track record in corporate governance.
Companies are becoming increasingly concerned that the reputation of their brands may be damaged rather than enhanced by their association with Fifa. Many have long-term commitments, in the case of adidas until 2030.
Sepp Blatter and his acolytes may be relatively impervious to complaints from national football bodies or politicians, but the prospect of offending or even ultimately losing a major sponsor may concentrate their minds.