LAFC Accused of Sportswashing with Chevron Partnership

Sportswashing is the practice of companies and states using sports to distract from human rights abuses and environmental degradation. The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) has been accused of engaging in this practice by partnering with Chevron, a major oil and gas producer.

Chevron's partnership with LAFC began in 2018, when the company became the team's official energy partner. However, this agreement has come under scrutiny due to Chevron's history of environmental destruction and human rights abuses around the world.

One of the main concerns is Chevron's support for Israel's genocidal project in Gaza. The company profits from Israel's oil and gas purchases, which are used to operationalize military bases and establish illegal settlements. This has earned Chevron a spot on the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) list.

Chevron's presence in Los Angeles is also problematic, with the company being responsible for pollution and environmental destruction in the city. The El Segundo refinery, owned by Chevron, is the worst ocean-polluting refinery in the country.