Football is a sport loved by millions around the world, but its environmental impact is coming under increasing scrutiny. The rise of sponsorships from high carbon sectors such as oil and gas companies, airlines, car manufacturers, and fast food chains is contributing to the normalization of behaviors that are harmful to the climate.
One of the most concerning developments is FIFA’s recent deal with Aramco, the world’s largest oil and gas company. This partnership includes exposure at the upcoming men’s World Cup Finals in North America in 2026, as well as the hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup Finals in Saudi Arabia. Similarly, English football is heavily sponsored by airlines like Emirates and Etihad, further entrenching the ties between elite football and high carbon industries.
A study conducted by Scientists for Global Responsibility (SGR) and the New Weather Institute looked at the carbon footprint of football, highlighting the significant emissions generated by fan travel to matches and the construction of new stadiums. The research estimated that a single match in a men’s domestic elite league could result in approximately 1,700 tCO2e, with a significant portion attributed to fan travel.
Efforts to address the environmental impact of football should focus on phasing out sponsorship deals with fossil fuel corporations and airlines. By reducing the reliance on high polluting companies, the sport can align itself with low carbon behaviors and contribute to a more sustainable future. Additionally, there is a need to reduce the number of international matches to limit air travel, benefitting player health and well-being, fan accessibility, and the climate.
Some initiatives are already making strides in promoting sustainability in football. Women footballers have called for an end to controversial sponsorship deals, while clubs like Forest Green Rovers are pioneering low-carbon practices. Programs like Pledgeball and Planet League are encouraging fans to adopt environmentally friendly behaviors, and the Cool Down Network is integrating climate change into the discourse surrounding the game.
As the global conversation around climate change intensifies, football has the opportunity to lead by example and drive meaningful change. By taking decisive action to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainability, the sport can play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future for generations to come.
