Sukazi Questions Why Black-Owned Football Clubs Still Struggle For Sponsors
TS Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi has once again raised concerns about the lack of sponsorship for black-owned football clubs in South Africa, despite strong performances on the field.
Sukazi has long argued that without financial backing, running a professional club becomes extremely difficult, often forcing owners to fund operations from their own pockets.
Despite the challenges, TS Galaxy continues to grow in stature in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), and Sukazi remains confident that the club is on track to becoming one of the best in the country.
“We can’t be shy about it; we have to be vocal,” said Sukazi.
“But be that as it may, I think we have illustrated our resilience. With or without the sponsor, we are going to build; we are on the right path, building one of the best clubs in South Africa.”
Sukazi: Black-Owned Clubs Should Not Be Overlooked
The 53-year-old emphasised that high-performing teams without sponsorships—particularly black-owned clubs—continue to be ignored.
“I’m saying that, and I’m unequivocally clear, I do not doubt it. We are on the right path, right course. It shall happen; we are on our way forward. So if you can pinpoint these types of issues, I think it’ll distinguish you to always see, you’ll be that kind of journalist who is able to raise matters that people are very shy about. I’m sure you want the best for the club, you want the best for TS Galaxy.
“I’m saying this again, also, there are too many clubs in the league that don’t have the sponsorship. I raised the issues on some other platforms. FNB, who would rather choose to leave football. When they supported a Cape Town-based white club just because there was no club in their eyes, I guess that was deserving. So, look, who are those clubs that we say are all black owned? I think Sekhukhune United is doing a fantastic job. Why don’t they have a sponsor?” Sukazi stated.
“These are the types of things that I think we have to look at if we really want to. The model works for us, our club is going to be stronger, I don’t doubt about. One of the strongest clubs from the league, that shall happen, but the fastest way to get there it’s when we have financial support.”
He continued: “Here you can compare an apple with an apple, home ground Pumas rugby, home ground in Mbombela. White sport, white only. TS Galaxy football, home ground Mbombela, black sport, black ownership, black support in the form of supporters. Rugby and whites, Christmas tree all manner of sponsors. Black none.
“But that doesn’t deter us, our club is stronger, and it shall even be stronger. But I’ll be very pleased if you, as custodians, have a role to play; you’ve got to raise these matters,” he added.
