As one of the leading soccer newspapers in South Africa, the Sowetan and its reporters should have known that the policy of Coca-Cola Southern and East Africa (Pty) Ltd is not to sponsor teams.

Andrew Mthembu, Deputy Group CEO of Vodacom Group (Pty) Ltd reacted as follows: “Members of the media have been misinformed. Vodacom has always been, and will continue to be, committed to Kaizer Chiefs and the loyal Amakhosi fan. Vodacom is in no way considering reducing its sponsorship status of Kaizer Chiefs. Vodacom is extremely happy with the exposure and association it receives from its sponsorship, and as a result this sponsorship has been renewed for five years. The deal is signed and sealed.”

Chris Couchman of Coca-Cola Southern and East Africa (Pty) Ltd had the following to say: “CCSEA have had no sponsorship discussions with any Team comprising the PSL Premiership. CCSEA policy precludes sponsorship of any Team other than National Teams. We are thrilled with our sponsorship of the SAFA U17 Inter Provincial, The PSL Coca-Cola Cup and Bafana Bafana.”

Kaizer Chiefs expressed their disappointment in today’s article in the Sowetan as neither Kaizer Chiefs, Vodacom nor Coca-Cola was contacted to confirm or deny the statement. Coming at a time in which Chiefs have just renewed their sponsorship with Vodacom for a further five years, proves that Chiefs and Vodacom have a very healthy and sound business relationship.

Chiefs would like to assure all their fans and other stakeholders that their relationship with Vodacom is very sound and headed for an extra five years lifespan. They feel their relationship with Vodacom is more than just a simple sponsorship; it is an actual partnership.