May 6 – The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed Aramco as an Official Global Supporter of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027, in a deal that will introduce stadium naming rights to the tournament for the first time.
As part of the agreement, then new host venue in Al Khobar will be branded as Aramco Stadium.
AFC general secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John said: “The AFC is delighted to welcome Aramco as we enter a new era of commercial innovation. By integrating naming rights for the first time, we are creating a more immersive platform for our partners whilst providing our passionate fans with an unparalleled match-day experience.”
The Saudis have won the Asian Cup three times, the last in 1996, but this is the first time they have hosted the competition that will be played across three cities – Riyadh, Jeddah and the newly built 45,000-capacity stadium in Al Khobar.
Five stadiums in Riyadh will be used and three in Jeddah. The 24-team tournament will open and close at the 70,000+ seat King Fahd Sports City Stadium in Riyadh, and will be played January 7 to February 5.
Aramco say that the deal is positioned as part of its broader investment in sport and community-facing initiatives. “This is another proud milestone for Aramco,” said Khalid A. Al Zamil, senior vice president of corporate communications. “We are proud to support the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027, a tournament that will inspire fans across the Kingdom and Asia.”
The group draw for the Asian Cup takes place Friday
No value was given for the sponsorship.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at [email protected]
