Vodacom replies to questions about their soccer sponsorships

In an effort to get the finer details on sponsorship agreements between clubs and their sponsors, I posed questions to Vodacom about their deal with Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs and Bloemfontein Celtics football clubs. Dot Field is the Chief Communications Officer at Vodacom Group and was kind enough to provide answers…

Can you detail your sponsorship agreement with Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs?
As the greatest supporter of SA Soccer, Vodacom has one of largest investments in South African soccer and most certainly, the one with the greatest depth. The company is the official sponsor of Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Bloemfontein Celtic.

Vodacom’s historical sponsorship of Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs dates back to 1998. The two clubs have millions of supporters within the soccer fraternity and it thus made business sense to get into a sponsorship with both clubs. Bloemfontein Celtic joined the Vodacom stable in 2004. Details of the contract are a confidential matter between Vodacom and the respective clubs.

Why is Bloemfontein Celtics not part of the Vodacom Challenge?
Vodacom is also the title sponsor of Vodacom Challenge, and is the official supplier to the PSL, Bafana Bafana and SAFA (includes Vodacom League). Through the Vodacom League, Vodacom is proud to have been part of 11 years that have paved the way to soccer greatness for many talented youngsters.

The Vodacom Challenge has always been owned by Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates as a pre-season preparatory for the local giants. Inclusion of Bloemfontein Celtic thereof, will follow approval of the two Clubs. The initial approach of the Vodacom Challenge was a continental one. Post securing the hosting and compilation rights of the Vodacom Challenge in 2006, it has been the promoter, Navitute’s 5 year plan to bring the best of Europe to play the best of South Africa. European and in particular British clubs, have the biggest local following, more than any other division/league in the world.

How else are you involved with soccer in South Africa or Africa?
Vodacom’s extensive commitment to soccer is demonstrative of the company’s belief in South Africa soccer – its heritage and its players. It highlights that we believe in the way it is played – its style and its flair. And it underscores the fact that Vodacom believes in the dream, of where South African soccer is going.