Carlsberg Malawi withdraws Bullets, Wanderers sponsorship
Carlsberg Malawi Limited, a company under conglomerate Press Corporations Limited (PCL), has abruptly withdrawn from sponsorship of Bullets FC and Mighty Wanderers.
The company committed to year-long sponsorship at K15 million (about $38 000) each.
Initially, it announced that the two clubs would compete for the ultimate sponsorship based on discipline, performance and fair play.
According to a letter dated July 16, 2013 from Carlsberg management addressed to Bullets which was sourced by Nyasa Times, the company states that it enjoyed being associated with the People’s Team and wished them a “bright and thriving future.”
No reason for the withdraw of sponsorship was given in the letter.
Football Association of Malawi (FAM) were yet to get the letter.
The company’s Chief Executive, Albel Chanje, warned about conditions attached to the sponsorship – fair play and discipline in the game – which if not followed would quickly bring to an end its support.
Almost 8 years ago, Carlsberg withdrew the prestigious Carlsberg Cup because of hooliganism at the stadiums. But they are now sponsoring the cup at the tune of K30 million.
Carlsberg has already given the two teams the first two tranches of this season’s sponsorship amounting to K10 million (about $25 000) each and are remaining with K5 million (about $12 500) for each club.
Bullets and Wanderers officials reserved their immediate comment.