In a concerning development, petroleum company Sasol has cut off ties with the South African Football Association (SAFA)… for now.
Sasol has confirmed in a statement that the sponsorship agreement with SAFA terminated a few days ago on 30 June.
“Sasol can confirm that our sponsorship agreement with SAFA, which encompassed support for the senior women’s team, Banyana Banyana, as well as the Sasol League, officially concluded on June 30, 2025.”
This is undoubtedly a major blow to the Women’s game in South Africa.
Banyana Banyana are just a few days away from playing their first match in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The first match is against Ghana on Monday, 7 July.
“We take pride in our 16-year partnership with SAFA and the substantial contributions we have made to enhance the growth and visibility of women’s football in South Africa. Through this collaboration, we have facilitated pathways for aspiring female footballers from grassroots levels to the international arena,” stated Sasol.
“We await feedback from SAFA regarding the terms of a potential renewal. Until an agreement is finalised, Sasol no longer possesses the rights to associate with Banyana Banyana and the Sasol League. Sasol continues to recognise the significant role that women’s sport plays in fostering empowerment and inclusion in South Africa.”
This setback for Banyana Banyana comes on the back of the team downing tools over unpaid bonuses from recent friendlies.
SAFA has since resolved the bonus saga, but are yet to comment on the Sasol bombshell.
