FC Barcelona’s economic vice president hails Qatar Foundation agreement

Barcelona (FCB).- The Blaugrana's economic vice president spoke to the media after the deal was announced alongside fellow directors Ramón Pont, the vice president of the club's Fundació, and Manel Arroyo, from the economic and strategic area. As well as helping the club toward a record income, the trio also spoke about the fact that the accord was worth more than just the economic value.

"With this agreement FC Barcelona is now the undisputed leader in world football, way ahead of our international competitors," Faus explained about the deal that will see Qatar Foundation join Unicef on the front of the club's football shirts. "It is historic because it reinforces the spirit of support of the Barça shirt. Economically it is a resounding success and even more so because of the Fundació and maintaining the agreement with Unicef."

Proud moment

"Qatar Foundation and CF Barcelona have converging interests," Faus continued. "They are not a commercial company, they are a foundation like a traditional Non Government Organisation, progressive and from a small country at the same time and they are keen to spread their message via education and sport."

Faus was pleased that Qatar Foundation have chosen Barça. "They have elected us to be their world ambassador in sport and we have to be proud of that choice," he added. "It was the best choice for the philosophy of the club."

Confidential process

In the press conference Faus also revealed that the deal had begun to be negotiated some time ago, but always with the strictest confidentiality. "Without the debt we have this may not have happened as it began with the economic difficulties. President Sandro Rosell was personally at the head for more than three months and this great deal has now happened thanks to his excellent relationship with the Qatari royal family."

Financial strength

Barça will earn around €170 million between now and 2016 andf Faus explained what the money means. "It will give more resources to strengthen the sporting projects," he said. "The economic situation is still delicate. It is better, but it is still delicate and the austerity plan is being maintained 100 per cent. It is difficult to have this team, all the other sections, to be supportive and have all the credit we have and to turn down an agreement like this."