The Football Kenya Federation Premier League has been left without a sponsor after BetKing Kenya terminated their deal with the local football governing body on Friday.
The shocking development comes exactly two days after the social media exploded with speculation that BetKing had expressed a desire to walk out.
Also facing a bleak future is the country's Division One league which also relied on the sponsor for support.
In a terse letter signed jointly by FKF president Nick Mwendwa and Betking Kenya country director Ivana Ristic, the two parties said the decision to terminate the sponsorship deal was mutual.
“The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and Betking Kenya jointly announces that we have reached a mutual agreement to terminate our existing sponsorship contracts for the BetKing Premier League (BKPL) and BetKing Division One League,” read the letter.
That notwithstanding, FKF and BetKing said they would explore other ways in which they can collaborate in the future.
“Unreservedly, FKF confirms that the support received from BetKing has played a crucial part in fostering the growth of the local football game.
“FKF confirms that the support of BetKing Kenya has been immense and has helped sustain FKF’s football development programs by a considerable measure.”
“Despite the mutual agreement to now terminate this partnership, FKF appreciates BetKing’s support and partnership over the past season.”
“BetKing Kenya equally appreciates the opportunity to sponsor the leagues in line with BetKing’s brand mission.
BetKing said they were still committed to participating in the growth of Kenya’s sporting talents, particularly at the grassroots levels through solid and long-term partnerships.
