By Isaac Salima
Super League of Malawi (Sulom) has announced that gate revenue for the 2023 TNM Super League season amounted to K915 million.
The amount is a remarkable rise from K587 million which was realised in the 2022 season.
Sulom President Fleetwood Haiya disclosed the record sum of money during a press briefing at the body’s headquarters in Blantyre yesterday.
Haiya said they are working on making available information on how the funds were disbursed to teams. He said the development clearly manifests the successful implementation of their motto of reviving, reforming and rebranding the league.
“This is what we promised the soccer fraternity. We wanted to change how the league is run. Of course, we are not yet there but we are proud of what we have achieved in our first season. I am also glad that the gate revenue has been made public just days after the league has finished,” Haiya said.
He further said that the level of competition in the league was quite stiff, saying that teams put up their best.
“The championship was decided on the very last day of the league. It was also for the first time that eight teams fought relegation until the very last day. This shows an improved level of commitment and competition among our teams,” Haiya said.
Flanked by his vice Gilbert Mittawa, chief executive officer Faith Mzunga and executive member Chimwemwe Nyirenda, Haiya further indicated that they are in talks with sponsors TNM plc to increase sponsorship considering the 44 percent devaluation of the Kwacha.
“Our sponsor is reviewing the sponsorship amount and Ican assure you that the amount will not be the same next season,” he said.
Haiya also admitted fixture congestion in the league, saying it was a result of Malawi National Football Team assignments.
Taking his turn, Mittawa said Sulom is on course to achieving the goals set out in the five pillars that were outlined at the beginning of the season.
“We are pleased that the one game per week policy has been of significance to our league. This gave the teams ample time to rest and prepare for their next game. We have also seen a golden boot award going to a mid-table team which is a remarkable feat,” he said.
Mittawa said it was pleasing to note that the league ended without major acts of hooliganism.
Haiya then completed the presser by maintaining that Sulom will live up to its promise of doubling team subvention from K10 million to K20 million per season.
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets retained the league title after a 1-1 draw with Silver Strikers at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre on Saturday.