More than 190 teams affiliated with Safa Vhembe have received a financial boost following a R1.7 million sponsorship from Singo Fuel.
The league had operated without a sponsor for the past three seasons after MMK Insurance decided not to renew its sponsorship agreement. Singo Fuel has now stepped in with a package worth R1.7 million, which will be spread over three seasons, from the 2025/26 season to the 2027/28 season, with about R566,000 allocated per season.
SAFA Vhembe secretary Mr Sam Matodzi confirmed that the association had received the sponsorship from Singo Fuel and that the league is now known as the Singo Fuel League. He added that the funding had enabled the association to increase prize money for its competitions.
The overall winner of the Champions of Champions tournament will now receive R100,000, up from R60,000. The runners-up will receive R70,000, an increase from R40,000, while the two losing semi-finalists will each receive R25,000.
Matodzi expressed gratitude to Singo Fuel for its support, saying sponsorships play a vital role in the development of sport.
“Football is a community-building sport, and we appreciate Singo Fuel’s decision to invest in local football despite the economic challenges facing businesses in the area,” he said.
Singo Fuel managing director Mr Robert Nesengani said he was impressed by the development of football in rural communities and believed the sponsorship would contribute to the growth of the game. He urged the association’s leadership to ensure the funds were used responsibly to develop football within their jurisdiction.
“It is our wish to see this association producing players who can go on to represent professional teams,” Nesengani said.
Explaining the company’s decision to sponsor the league, Nesengani said it believed in supporting local initiatives.
“We believe in the saying that charity begins at home. If our young people participate in sport, they are more likely to stay away from trouble. Soccer can also provide opportunities to earn a living,” he said.