Football Australia air opposition to Saudi sponsorship

Football Australia CEO James Johnson has said the association "would not be comfortable" with Saudi Arabian sponsorship of the Women's World Cup this summer.

Reports that tourism board Visit Saudi would be one of the tournament's main sponsors have sparked a major backlash over the last few weeks, with several players and coaches voicing their unease at the development due to the country's women's rights record.

FIFA has yet to confirm any partnership with Visit Saudi, but World Cup co-hosts Australia and New Zealand have both let it be know that they would be in strong opposition to a deal materalising.

"Football Australia has consulted on this matter with key stakeholders, including government and commercial partners, and it was an overwhelming consensus that this partnership does not align with our collective vision for the tournament and falls short of our expectations," said Johnson.

"Whilst the partnership has not been confirmed by FIFA, based on the consultations we have had with our community, key stakeholders and our own position, we would not be comfortable with it.

"While we await further clarity and information as to the details of the partnership from FIFA, we continue to convey this clear message on behalf of Football Australia, New Zealand Football, and our community."

Last month Republic of Ireland boss Vera Pauw aired her own concerns over the possibility that Saudi Arabia will be a major sponsor of the Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Ireland play Australia in their opening match of the tournament in Sydney on 20 July.

"It's a concern of course for us," said Pauw.

"We have our concerns, it’s up to FIFA to decide, it’s not up to us. Let us say we have our concerns."

USA star Alex Morgan also weighed