SAA goes back into bed with SAFA
SAA, South African Airways, has gone back into bed with the South African Football Association. The two organisations have signed a short-term sponsorship deal.
SAA was the official carrier of Bafana Bafana in 2016. The official national carrier is also responsible for the “Ndizani Bafana Ndizani” campaign in that historic 1996 winning campaign. This new 12-month deal is for all national teams and was welcomed by SAFA CEO, Lydia Monyepao.
“We welcome back SAA to help us get to key fixtures in destinations they fly to on a non-exclusive basis,” the SAFA CEO said. “It is important for us as SAFA to give considerations to our own when we consider partners, albeit on a short-term basis. Our approach is to stabilize our commercial partnerships with diverse partners that reduce our cost base and also add into our coffers, so SAA will play a key role as a strategic partner for our need to travel and compete internationally on a regular basis.”
Bafana Bafana had difficulties in getting to Uyo for the team’s World Cup qualifier against Nigeria on a chartered flight. The squad had to spend a night in Port Harcourt after delays at the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. With the new arrangement, teams will be flown directly to their intended destinations.
“We welcome our national teams on board, and we look forward to flying them around the world on national duty to represent our nation. We know the players and officials will be well taken care of and will enjoy our award-winning hospitality that SAA is renowned for,” said Professor John Lamola, the interim CEO of SAA.
The inclusion of Banyana Banyana and all junior teams in the sponsorship deal is a welcome development for South African football.
