In a significant development for both football and international partnerships, Premier League table-toppers Arsenal FC have confirmed they will end their sponsorship agreement with Visit Rwanda at the conclusion of the current football season.
End of an Eight-Season Partnership
The Rwanda Development Board officially announced the mutual decision on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. This move brings to a close an eight-season collaboration that began back in 2017. The deal was notably historic as it made Visit Rwanda the club's first Official Sleeve Partner, with the logo prominently displayed on the left sleeve of the players' iconic red and white jerseys.
The partnership, however, had recently faced increasing scrutiny from fans and human rights groups. This pressure intensified due to the escalating violence in the mineral-rich eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which shares a border with Rwanda.
Geopolitical Context and Fan Protests
The decision comes against a backdrop of serious regional conflict. The DRC government has repeatedly accused Rwanda of providing military support, including weapons and training, to the M23 rebel militia. This group re-emerged in 2021 and has since seized control of significant territories within the DRC.
The resulting conflict has been devastating, leading to thousands of deaths and creating a severe humanitarian crisis. Although a ceasefire and peace framework were signed in recent months, the situation remains fragile. In April of this year, sections of the Arsenal fanbase staged protests, voicing their opposition to the club's continued association with Rwanda amidst these geopolitical tensions.
Despite this conclusion, Rwanda maintains its visibility in the sports world through other high-profile partnerships with European football giants Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and Atletico Madrid.
Arsenal's On-Pitch Campaign Continues
On the field, Mikel Arteta's squad remains focused on their quest for a first Premier League title since the legendary 'Invincibles' season of 2004. Their impressive form was recently checked in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Sunderland.
Former Arsenal defender Dan Ballard scored the opening goal for Sunderland, ending the Gunners' remarkable run of eight consecutive clean sheets. Arsenal fought back with goals from Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard, but a last-gasp equalizer from Brian Brobbey in stoppage time snatched two points from the league leaders.
Reflecting on the match, manager Mikel Arteta stated, "We conceded two similar goals, which is not good enough for ourselves. But it's true that we showed an incredible resilience and courage to come back. Even at the end after we conceded the goal we had a massive chance to win it."
Despite the setback, Arsenal maintains a strong position at the summit of the Premier League. They currently hold a six-point lead over second-placed Chelsea, while Manchester City closed the gap to four points after a crucial victory over Liverpool.
