The two parties signed a mega P68 million sponsorship deal in February this year, much to the excitement of Magosi supporters who have seen first-hand their side’s financial struggles over the years. The deal was set to run for 10 years until 2033.
Earlier this week, rumours started circulating that the relationship between the two sides has broken down, just a few weeks after the end of the season. The news was confirmed yesterday by the club chairperson, Victor Kobe who also said they are not in a position to reveal the reasons.
“Yes, we have indeed parted ways with DC Tours, but a press release will be out to confirm the above. As an ethical body, MCC will not explain why it terminated this contract prematurely to protect the business interests of the contracting parties,” Kobe said yesterday.
The deal was expected to help the Kgatleng giants remain stable after struggling financially over the last few years. Speaking to Mmegi Sport a few days after the deal was signed, the club chairperson had defended the 10-year deal, which had created scepticism among football fans. At the time, Kobe said the 10-year deal was justified considering that the club had accumulated a lot of debt and the deal would help ease the situation, while also providing continuity in running football.
However, despite losing its sponsor, Kobe said a contingency plan is in place to manage the continuity of the club. He said the club leadership has the best interest of its members, employees and stakeholders at heart. “MCC supporters are urged to embrace a new technical sponsor that came into effect this week and designs of our new replica will be released next week, with the consignment expected to arrive in our offices in the first week of August. All details will be in the Monday press release.
We are coming with all systems ready to fire,” Kobe said. Meanwhile, Kobe said the team reported for pre-season on Tuesday as preparations for the next season start. With the relegation of Extension Gunners, Prisons XI and Mogoditshane Fighters, many are already predicting an even tougher season in the Debswana First Division South league. Kobe said they will bolster their squad while also realigning their objectives and road map. He said they are also in the process of replacing the general manager who left at the end of the season.
“For the next two weeks or three, the players will be with the physical trainer at our gym for physical fitness,” he said. Chiefs finished the season in fifth position under the tutelage of interim coach, Patrick Molefe. Kobe said the club has decided to recruit a reputable head coach who will easily understand their road map. He also said preparations at Riverplate Ground are underway with the artistic impressions of the facility already in place. "We are busy in the market to identify those investors who can invest in the construction of our stadium.
Already there are a few companies that have shown interest in the development of the ground and when we have penned down the contract, everyone will know. We are busy with a proposal that we will be sharing soon with our municipality for a PPP project and this project will benefit all Kgatleng sports codes,” he said.
