Arsenal ends controversial sponsorship

Fan groups celebrate victory

Arsenal’s decision to end its sponsorship with Visit Rwanda has been hailed as a win by dedicated fan groups. The Gooner Fan Podcast (GFP), prominent in the movement against the partnership, launched various initiatives, including protests at the Emirates Stadium and a satirical video that humorously critiqued the deal. The podcast community also handed out armbands to cloak the logo in games, garnering significant attention. Expressing gratitude through social media, GFP highlighted how the club proved it values the fan base’s voice in such critical matters.

Support from LGBTQ+ community

Arsenal’s inclusive group, the Gay Gooners, echoed the positive sentiments. From the start, many members were uneasy with the Visit Rwanda sponsorship due to the country’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights. Conducting their survey, they discovered that 86% of participants favored ending the contract. Their voices helped amplify the importance of aligning the club’s sponsorships with values of equality and representation.

Club’s statement on partnership

Reflecting on the decision, Arsenal CEO Richard Garlick spoke of the partnership’s role in elevating knowledge about Rwanda’s tourism and preservation efforts. In a show of mutual appreciation, he extended thanks to the Rwanda Development Board for their collaborative efforts. Jean-Guy Afrika of the Rwanda Development Board acknowledged the achievements made together. Emphasizing the importance of the partnership in promoting the uniqueness of Rwandan destinations, he expressed gratitude to Arsenal for their association.