Gor, Leopards sign multimillion shirt sponsorship deal with gaming firm

Tony Oworiin Nairobi

EXCLUSIVE

After a period of financial turmoil following the departure of their previous shirt sponsors, Kenyan Premier League giants Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards have secured new sponsors, a huge relief to the club’s rank and file.

In a three-year deal, the two teams that command huge following in Kenya will now be sponsored by one gaming firm set to launch their operations in Kenyan market in the coming months.

Though the financial details have not been made public, Citizen Digital understands that Gor Mahia will pocket Sh55 million annually while Leopards will contend with Sh45 million over the same period.

The good news is landing a shirt sponsor at a time the two community clubs have been facing tough times with rumours sizzling in the air about departures of some top players due financial constraints.

In fact the K’Ogalo and Ingwe playing unit is owed staggering salary arrears and bonuses.

To his relief, Gor Mahia Chairman Ambrose Rachier is excited about the partnership and notes that the club now has a reliable partner who shares their passion and values football.

“We are very happy to announce this deal. A very welcomed message to all our fans that we have secured long term financial support from a strong and safe partner. With our sponsors, we get an engaged and reliable partner with a focus on responsible gaming. But also, a partner who shares our passion and values about football and the excitement that comes with it,” Rachier told Citizen Digital.

AFC Chairman Dan Shikanda also hailed the new found partnership.

“We are very proud to announce this new major deal with the brand, especially to our fans. For us, this sponsorship means everything, as it gives us a sense of security and work peace to be able to focus even more on becoming the best team in the country. With Betsafe, we have a reliable partner with strong focus on responsible gaming and passion for football”, says Dan Shikanda, Chairman AFC Leopards SC.

The sponsor’s PR and Partner manager Tom Bwana said: “We are very proud and humble to support a top-class football club in Kenya. With one of the largest fan bases in the country, this exciting partnership provides us with the perfect platform to engage football fans.”