BP's contract ended with the 2002 competition, however they had until the 31 March 2003 to finally inform the PSL as to their intention to renew.

PSL Chief Executive Officer Trevor Phillips told the official PSL site that he was disappointed with BP's decision, but he was not surprised.

"We have known for several months that BP were considering withdrawing from the Top 8 event. BP have been a valued and supportive sponsor, however, it’s a fact of life that company’s marketing strategies and target markets change over time.

"If BP have decided that other sponsorship

opportunities are more suited to their strategic brand positioning plans, then the PSL thanks BP for their valuable support in the past and wishes them every success for the future."

Phillips further said; "The concept of an early season tournament involving the top 8 finishers in the premiership, fits in well with the PSL structure, is well accepted by both the teams and the public and that this highly visible and valuable sponsorship opportunity will be offered in the market place."

With the race in the premiership hotting up, the Top 8 tournament promises to be one of the most exciting and dynamic tournaments to begin the new season.