Kenyan Premier League (KPL) giants AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia have signed sponsorship deal with new betting entrant firm Betsafe.
The two local giants and Betsafe, have signed a partnership deal that will last for the next three years.
In the detail of the deal, AFC Leopards will part with KSh40 million per year while Gor Mahia will receive KSh55 million per year from the sponsor.
“We are pleased to announce our new partnership with a leading Sports betting firm Betsafe. This partnership, when football resumes, offers our club substantial financial support from a strong and safe partner for the coming three seasons,” Gor Mahia’s statement read after the parties signed the deal that has come after the season-long struggle
“Betsafe who will launch their betting services in the Kenyan market in the next few months will as of today, be Gor Mahia’s official head sponsor as well as shirt sponsor.”
“We are very proud to announce this new major deal 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,” Dan Shikanda, AFC Leopards’ chairman said on his part.
“With Betsafe, we have a reliable partner with a strong focus on responsible gaming and passion for football.”
Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards have been without a sponser since SportPesa, their previous sponsor left, leaving the clubs to depend on fans, members and other well-wishers to honour matches and settle players’ allowances at times.
Financial struggles led to AFC Leopards lose key foreign signings Vincent Habamahoro, Ismail Diarra, captain Soter Kayumba, Tresor Ndikumana and Rwandan Coach Casa Mbungo.
Whyvonne Isuza, Brian Marita, John Makwatta left for Wazito FC, Tusker and Zesco United respectively, as the club struggled to meet their salaries and allowances..
On the other side Gor Mahia had it rough as the club struggled to honour both local and continental matches without a financial partner.
K’Ogalo and and Ingwe players at some point had to go on a go slow boycotting training in protest for delayed allowances and salaries.
This comes as a reprieve to AFC leopards team who have promised a competitive season a head as they plan to make experienced additions to bolster their youthful squad.
However, Gor by virtue of being KPL champions will feature in continental football and this deal would help them put their house in order as their squad has been hard hit during covid 19
It is the second time the two Mashemeji Derby rivals are signing a joint sponsorship deal with a betting firm after enjoying a similar relationship with SportPesa.
