‘This is a hellhole’: Aramco makes its presence hurt in the shadow of the World Cup

As the world turns its eyes to the excitement of the World Cup, a stark contrast emerges just 100 miles away in Texas. While FIFA revels in the spotlight of its sponsorship deals, including a significant partnership with oil giant Aramco, residents in nearby communities are grappling with the less glamorous realities of industrial life. Houston has been a stage for the World Cup festivities, with Aramco's branding prominently featured. However, in a neighboring city, locals voice concerns about the refinery’s emissions, which they claim expose them to harmful gases. Jamal Johnson, a local resident, describes the environment as a 'hellhole,' reflecting the discontent among families living in proximity to the refinery. With reports linking air quality issues to long-term health problems, the stark divide between the celebratory atmosphere of the World Cup and the struggles of these communities raises critical questions about corporate responsibility in the face of global sporting events.