Fufa Deal A Dream, Say MTN

By Mark Namanya
TELECOMMUNICATIONS company MTN has moved to clarify that they are not on the verge of signing another sponsorship package with FUFA.
“We have had no contact with FUFA or are not planning to meet with FUFA,” read a statement from MTN’s marketing manager Erik Van Veen.
Van Veen (pictured), was reacting to a story in yesterday’s New Vision, “MTN ponders return” that stated the company was considering going back into bed with soccer governing body FUFA.
Van Veen said “MTN’s reason for cancelling the FUFA contract is well documented and revolved around Celtel’s sponsorship of the Kobs.”
MTN pulled out of a lucrative national team sponsorship deal and joint sponsorship with Nile Breweries, Coca Cola and Shell, after FUFA signed on rivals Celtel to sponsor junior team Kobs. Cranes currently have no sponsor.
MTN had in 1999 signed a five-year contract worth sh500m. The deal encompassed branding, naming and broadcasting rights involving Cranes matches.
“If sufficient levels of professionalism, transparency, honesty and dedication are evident, then MTN will consider sponsorship and support of football via FUFA again.”
Van Veen reiterated that “Only when MTN are satisfied that the sponsorship conditions are conducive, will they rethink of a come back.”
MTN quit football and moved into rugby, basketball and cricket sponsorship.
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