10-year Old Saudi Girl Becomes Champions League Mascot

A ten-year old girl has become the first Saudi woman to be a mascot at a UEFA Champions League game, courtesy of MasterCard. 

As the tournament’s official sponsor, Mastercard gave an opportunity for Basmah Nawaf Alshnaifi to walk the stadium at the final between Liverpool and Tottenham in the Spanish capital of Madrid. 

“At MasterCard, we are committed to offering cardholders priceless opportunities that allow them to pursue their passions,” said J.K. Khalid, Mastercard’s general manager for Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

 “It is heartening to see such unbridled enthusiasm for football among young Saudi girls today, and we couldn’t be happier to help make Basmah’s dream a reality,” he added.

Speaking about her experience, Basmah said that “I never thought I would ever have such an experience in my life.”

“I have always had the dream to play in a big stadium,” she added. “I want to thank Mastercard for making this happen. This is the best gift I’ve ever received and I will always remember it.” 

Mastercard has been a sponsor of the UEFA Champions League since 1994 and recently added two women’s football clubs, Arsenal Football Club and Olympique Lyonnais to its portfolio.