Bayern Munich backs out of contentious partnership with Qatar Airways.

Today, Wednesday, Bayern Munich announced that they have decided not to renew their long-controversial sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways due to allegations of human rights abuses in the Gulf nation.

In a joint statement, the parties said the contract would expire “by mutual agreement” on June 30 after a five-year partnership.

He added: “The relationship that Bayern Munich managed to build with their fans in the Arab world through Qatar Airways will remain.”

Bayern’s new CEO Jan-Christian Dressen said the team and Qatar Airways have “worked successfully together and learned from each other”.

For his part, Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways, wished Bayern “all the best for the future”, adding: “They are a big club and we enjoyed their matches with enthusiasm and passion.”

In 2018, the Bavarian giant signed a five-year sponsorship deal with state-owned Qatar Airways, which is reportedly worth around 20 million euros per year, according to media reports.

During the club’s general meeting in 2021, outraged fans tried to force a move to demand that the deal not be renewed.

The masses cite human rights associations accusing Qatar of exploiting foreign workers, especially those who worked at the 2022 World Cup facilities and stadiums.

Qatar has repeatedly denied the allegations against it and has announced a number of reforms since it was chosen to host the World Cup in 2010, including introducing a minimum wage and improving conditions for workers.

Source: AFP.