PSL sponsors getting itchy feet amid SABC blackout

The Absa Premiership concluded its third week of the new season, yet none of the matches have been broadcast on SABC television or radio.

Weeks ago, broadcast holders SuperSport revealed that they had offered the matches to the cash-strapped national broadcaster for R280 million per season.

Aside from not having the finances, reports estimated that the SABC would only turn a R9.8m profit per year.

While the impasse remains, the big-hitting sponsors of local football, ABSA, MTN and Telkom, are growing concerned...

"Absa naturally wants maximum media coverage for the Absa Premiership across all platforms in order to reach football fans nationally," spokesperson Songezo Zibi told The Sowetan.

"We therefore urge all concerned parties to find a speedy resolution to the impasse so that football fans can get access to information about their favourite Absa Premiership teams and idols.

"The PSL is our partner in the Absa Premiership sponsorship, and we have discussed this matter with them. They have also kept us abreast of developments on a regular basis. Our primary concern is the fans whose support for the Absa Premiership we deeply appreciate."

MTN, who sponsors the lucrative Wafa Wafa competition, is also growing impatient.

"The current issue related to coverage of the MTN8 by the public broadcaster is certainly a concern," said spokesperson Jacqui O'Sullivan.

"MTN is engaging with the PSL to ensure both MTN and its customers can continue to derive great value from the tournament."

Finally, Telkom spokesperson Mooketsi Mocumi is hoping that an agreement can be reached soon so local football fans can experience the action.

"We are concerned about the impasse between the SABC and the PSL," said Mocumi.

"At this stage we are hopeful that the parties will find each other (to end) the blackout that would marginalise the majority of the South African football followers."