Scottland FC secures US$10m sponsorship for 2026

Scott Sakupwanya at the fundraising function

By Percy Nhara

HARARE — Reigning Premier Soccer League champions Scottland FC have confirmed a US$10 million sponsorship package to back their 2026 title defence and maiden CAF Champions League campaign, the club announced at a high‑profile kit unveiling at Harare Sports Club on Friday.

The multi‑partner deal includes a US$1.5 million commitment from Ecobank specifically for the club’s continental campaign, with other corporate backers such as IMC Communications, Sakunda Holdings, Swan Tobacco, and Steelmate contributing to the overall package. Club officials said the funding will support player recruitment, logistics, infrastructure, and match preparations.

Investment and strategic signings

Club chairperson Everson Chatambudza described the sponsorship as a transformational boost for a side that won promotion and the league title in the same season.

“Our vision is clear: retain the Premier Soccer League title and compete strongly in the CAF Champions League,” Chatambudza said.

Key football moves announced at the event:

• Head coach: Norman Mapeza appointed to lead the technical team.

• Team manager: Former Warriors captain Peter Ndlovu joins the backroom staff.

• New signings: Emmanuel Ziocha, Abubakar Moffat, and Isaskar Gurirab added to strengthen squad depth.

The club also paraded 27 brand‑new vehicles allocated for players, signalling the scale of investment behind the project.

High-profile launch and fundraising highlights

The kit unveiling drew notable guests, including American hip‑hop artist Rick Ross, Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Kazembe Kazembe, legislator Chamu Chiwanza, and Nqobile Magwizi, President of the Zimbabwe Football Association.

In a headline moment, a Scottland jersey signed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa was auctioned for US$1 million and purchased by Sakunda Holdings, with proceeds directed to the club’s 2026 campaign.

Government and sector reaction

Government representatives welcomed the private investment in local football. Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya praised Scottland for contributing to the growth of domestic football and aligning with national development objectives.

The involvement of major corporate sponsors and high‑profile figures underscores growing commercial interest in Zimbabwean club football and the potential for greater professionalism within clubs.

What this means for Zimbabwean football

• Professionalisation: Large sponsorships can improve training, player welfare, and club operations, raising standards across the league.

• Continental readiness: Dedicated funding for the CAF Champions League should help Scottland meet the travel, accommodation, and logistical demands of continental competition.

• Talent retention and recruitment: Improved contracts and facilities may help retain local talent and attract regional players.

• Commercial model: The event highlights how clubs can leverage corporate partnerships, celebrity endorsements, and high‑value fundraising to scale quickly.

Quick facts

• Sponsorship value: US$10 million total; Ecobank US$1.5 million for CAF campaign.

• Venue: Harare Sports Club kit unveiling.

• Coach: Norman Mapeza.

• Team manager: Peter Ndlovu.

• Notable signings: Emmanuel Ziocha; Abubakar Moffat; Isaskar Gurirab.

• Auction: Signed jersey sold for US$1 million to Sakunda Holdings.

Scottland FC US$10 million sponsorship 2026