FIFA solidified its partnership with Saudi Arabia by officially announcing a sponsorship deal with the kingdom's state oil company, Aramco, on Thursday.

The agreement, widely anticipated, became inevitable after Saudi Arabia was nearly confirmed last October as the host nation for the 2034 men's World Cup.

Covering the period up to 2027, the deal encompasses major events such as the men's World Cup in 2026, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as the 2027 Women's World Cup, the hosts for which will be determined next month.

While the financial details of the arrangement were not disclosed, it is likely one of FIFA's most lucrative deals in terms of average annual value.

It may also involve sponsorship of the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup scheduled for next year in the U.S.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has developed close relations with Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman since before the 2018 World Cup.

Notably, the tournament in Russia was sponsored by the state-owned energy company, Gazprom.

The bidding process for the 2034 World Cup was unexpectedly launched last October, seemingly tailored to favor Saudi Arabia, with only FIFA member federations in Asia and Oceania permitted to participate.

By the end of that month, Saudi Arabia was confirmed as the sole candidate.

While the Visit Saudi tourist board was a minor sponsor of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, its presence was absent at the 2023 Women's World Cup following objections from organizers in Australia and New Zealand.