DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — A prominent FIFA sponsor is speaking out against racism in soccer following uproar over President Sepp Blatter’s comments.
Dubai airline Emirates said Sunday it “completely abhors racism” and supports efforts to abolish “all forms of discrimination in football.”
Emirates says it’s watching developments within soccer’s governing body closely, and notes it has “no role in the management of the organization.”
The area’s biggest carrier stopped short of criticizing Blatter. The FIFA boss said he was sorry Friday for saying that racist abuse does not exist in soccer and that racial incidents could be settled by a handshake.
Emirates’ eight-year, $195 million sponsorship deal expires in 2014.
