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Soccer boss’ rape claims will not affect sponsorships

Picture credit: Terry Shean
Picture credit: Terry Shean

Some of the companies that sponsor soccer in the country will not reconsider their contracts in the wake of rape allegations against one of South Africa's most prominent soccer bosses.

The sponsors, including Castle Lager, South African Airways (SAA), Sasol and Nike have confirmed that they will continue sponsoring football despite the serious allegations levelled against the senior soccer administrator.

SA Breweries spokeswoman Robyn Chalmers said they had noted the reports but they do not affect their contract.

"SAB's contract is with the organisation and not an individual and we would look to Safa to advise on how it plans to engage on this matter," she said.

She said their efforts were focused on delivering on their contractual obligations to help grow and support football in Mzansi and to help nurture football talent.

SAA spokesman Tlali Tlali said they view the allegations seriously although their contractual relationship is with the organisation and not an individual.

"We trust that Safa will manage the situation in the best way possible. This is a very sensitive matter, one which requires a considerable degree of circumspection and consideration to the rights of both the alleged victim and perpetrator," he said.

He told Sunday World the airline would keep a watchful eye on the situation and hoped that the "matter will be managed with the principles of justice and fairness".

Sasol spokeswoman Matebello Motloung said the petrochemical giant would uphold their contract because of their commitment to empowering young women through sport.

"Sasol is committed to the empowerment of young women through sport and we will uphold our contract with the Safa to focus on the development of women's football," she said.

Nike spokeswoman Seruscka Naidoo said the brand is a technical sponsor of Safa and not an individual.

"We are committed to the development of football in South Africa," she said.

Grand Parade Investment, which runs Burger King locally, did not respond to questions.

Former ANC MP  Jennifer Ferguson made a shocking revelation this week that she was raped by the man 24 years ago.

A second woman emerged after she contacted Ferguson and told her that she also suffered the same fate, allegedly at the hands of the soccer boss.

The man could not be reached for comment. Security guards and neighbours at his Joburg address said he moved out in February this year.

One of his cellphones was answered by a woman who claimed that she did not know him and had no relationship with him.