The Premier Soccer League [PSL] have provided an update on the Betway Premiership trophy design which will be unveiled towards the end of the season.
This comes after Betway South Africa, in partnership with the PSL, announced that internationally renowned artist Nelson Makamo will design the trophy.
The PSL will receive the trophy as its Lifetime trophy, demonstrating Betway’s dedication to ensuring the longevity of South African football for generations to come.
In the initial stages of his exploration into the history of South African football, Makamo held a meeting with PSL chairman Dr Irvin Khoza at the PSL’s headquarters in Parktown as part of his research process.
‘IT WAS AN HONOUR TO MEET THE PSL CHAIRMAN’, SAYS NELSON MAKAMO
The purpose of the meeting with Dr Khoza was for the PSL chairman to guide Makamo through the extensive history of South African football, the PSL’s development into the top league in Africa, and how the Betway Premiership trophy can represent this remarkable journey.
“It was an honour to meet the chairman. There was no way this project could have started without first receiving his blessing. He knows so much about the history and legacy of football,” said Makamo in a statement released by the PSL.
“I can say that football really is in my blood. So, I know what it has done for us as people. When I received this call, I was humbled by the opportunity and the responsibility given to me.
“I have worked around the world, but this project means so much to me. This is because it is something that we will look at years from now. And in the end, we will be proud of what we have created.”
In the upcoming months, Makamo will travel throughout the country for his creative journey, drawing inspiration from the history and current events of the Betway Premiership and ultimately revealing the trophy in May.
DR IRVIN KHOZA APPROVES NELSON MAKAMO’S APPOINTMENT
Meanwhile, Dr Khoza expressed approval of Makamo’s appointment, noting that football and art are integral parts of South African culture.
“I was very excited when I heard that Betway are working with a talent of Nelson Makamo’s calibre. Football and art are about expression, emotion and people. Nelson Makamo’s work speaks for itself. Having now met him, I know he has a deep passion for football and the game’s history in this country. I am so proud that this trophy will be created by one of our own to celebrate the very best of us,” stated Dr Khoza.
“I am a football fan first. So, I want to see this new trophy for the first time when the rest of South Africa sees it. I love surprises, and l cannot wait to see what Nelson Makamo creates.”
THE BETWAY TROPHY A PRESENT TO THE PSL
Mark Rowles, Betway’s marketing head, clarified that the trophy designed by Makamo was a present from the Betway Premiership sponsors.
“Collaborating with an artist is ambitious and exciting, which is exactly what we and the Premier Soccer League are about. His work has gone around the world, and he represents the very best that we have to offer as a country,” said Rowles.
“We are delighted to have him on board to create something unique. This will live forever as a testament to our commitment to football. We want the football lovers of South Africa to feel involved in the process. This is not just a Betway Premiership trophy.
“It is also their trophy. We want this to be an enduring symbol of the wonderful impact that football has had on millions of people across generations.”
So far, Orlando Pirates are sitting top of the Betway Premiership table with 21 points, three points ahead of second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns.
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