Kenya's Oldest Football Competition Gets Millions from Betting Firm

The Football Kenya Federation on Tuesday, February 28 reached an agreement with betting company Mozzart bet to sponsor the FKF Cup to the tune of Ksh60 million for three years. 

FKF launched the partnership in a joint press conference with each side highlighting the importance of the tournament in nurturing talents in the country.

In his address, Mozzart Bet Country manager, Sasa Krneta noted that the deal underscored the company’s desire to develop local football.

Mozzart Bet Country Manager, Saša Krneta and FKF CEO Barry Otieno signing the partnership agreements on February 28, 2023. /FILE

“We are thrilled to work with the Football Kenya Federation to promote football in Kenya and provide opportunities for young players to showcase their skills. Our sponsorship of the Mozzart Bet Cup will help to build a better future for the sport in the country, which aligns with our values and goals.”

Krneta further reiterated that “The Mozzart Bet Cup sponsorship is a testament to our unwavering commitment to supporting sports and communities in Kenya. We believe that sports can bring people together, create opportunities for growth, and transform lives.

"Our partnership with the Football Kenya Federation is an excellent opportunity for us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young footballers and the communities they represent."

On his part, FKF CEO Barry Otieno was grateful for the company’s noble step to aid football which has laboured without commercial partners since FIFA lifted the suspension it had imposed due to government interference in football activities.

“We are grateful for the belief Mozzart has shown in football, especially at this time, when football was without any commercial partners. This partnership marks the first step towards rebuilding the football brand, after the lifting of the FIFA suspension.”

This partnership is the first in a year after a period of football coldness on the commercial sponsorship front. Mozzart replaces Betway, the immediate former sponsor of the tournament in question.

One of the notable brands to sponsor the competition in the past is television service provider GOtv who was the official sponsor when AFC Leopards beat Gor Mahia to bag the trophy in 2013.

Gor Mahia is the most successful team in the competition having won it 13 times, while AFC Leopards come second with 10 titles.

The competition has been a platform where players from lower-tier leagues came into the limelight and attract suitors from premier league clubs. Some of the notable talents that benefitted from the FKF Cup include Joe Waithera, Patrick Matasi, Joash Onyango, and Stephen Wakanya.

The Mozzart Cup Round of 32 will kick off on the weekend of March 4-5, 2023 with the winner earning a spot to represent Kenya in the CAF Confederations Cup.

Visit flashscore.co.ke for live football scores

FKF Deputy President Doris Petra, Mozzart Bet Country Manager, Saša Krneta, FKF CEO Barry Otieno and Mozzart Bet Marketing Manager Frank Ochieng. /FILE