MBABANE – It can come back!
This refers to the proposed E5 million Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) Charity Cup, which is scheduled to kick off the 2026/27 season.
The PLE, in partnership with Skyfly, has proposed this new E5 million tournament to launch the upcoming football calendar. The competition is highly fan-driven, requiring supporters to cast votes to green-light the tournament before final sponsorship agreements are finalised.
This was revealed by the PLE Chairman, Polycarp Dlamini, during a press briefing held at Sigwaca House about two weeks ago. It will feature all 16 Premier League clubs along with the top four teams from the MulaSport National First Division League.
The PLE and Skyfly are targeting a total E5 million package (E3.5 million title and E1.5 million partner sponsorships). The champions will pocket E1 million, the runners-up will receive E500 000, and all participating teams will be guaranteed E100 000 each.
The tournament’s fate lies in the hands of the supporters. Voting results will determine the direction the PLE takes to engage prospective sponsors.
It was revealed that beyond entertainment, proceeds from the event will go directly to benefitting non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and charitable organisations.
The proposed tournament Public Relations Officer (PRO), Themba ‘Mthimbawawa’ Qaba, revealed that they are targeting 150 000 votes by close of business next Friday.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
PLE Chairman Polycarp Dlamini (2nd R) alongside CEO Pat Vilakati, Skyfly MD Musa Dlamini and PLE Executive members Sandile Zwane, Sithembiso Mamba and Sibusiso Nxumalo. (File pic)