PSL Eyes Betway for Premiership Sponsorship Amid DStv Exit

19.07.2024

DStv has decided to terminate its sponsorship of the DStv Premiership one year ahead of schedule. This unexpected move has left the Premier Soccer League (PSL) scrambling to secure a new title sponsor as the new football season approaches.

Search for a New Sponsor

According to SABC Sport, the PSL is actively negotiating with potential sponsors to replace DStv. Among the frontrunners is Betway, an online gambling firm already sponsoring the SA20 cricket league. The league is under pressure to finalize a deal quickly, with less than a month remaining before the 2024/25 season kickoff.

Impact on the Upcoming Season

The uncertainty surrounding the league’s sponsorship has caused delays in announcing the start date for the 2024/25 season. The PSL has asked clubs to postpone finalizing their kits until a new Premiership logo can be confirmed, indicating ongoing negotiations.

Financial Concerns and MultiChoice

Concerns about MultiChoice’s financial health have also surfaced. The company’s ability to continue supporting both the Premiership and the MultiChoice Diski Challenge reserve league is in question.

Additionally, Canal+, a French multimedia conglomerate, is reportedly close to acquiring a majority stake in MultiChoice, adding another layer of uncertainty to the situation.

Lack of Financial Transparency

The financial details of DStv’s sponsorship deal with the PSL have not been disclosed. The league has not released financial information since the 2019/20 season, which was significantly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.