Nine times Rwanda Premier League Rayon Sports and SKOL Brewery Ltd (SBL) have ended their sponsorship partnership after 12 years.
In a statement released on June 8, SKOL confirmed the development, bringing to a close one of the longest sponsorship relationships in Rwandan football.
The partnership began in May 2014 when SKOL signed a three-year agreement with Rayon Sports worth Rwf47 million per year. In 2017, the deal was renewed for five years at an annual value of Rwf66 million.
Over the years, the brewery’s support extended beyond direct sponsorship. SKOL contributed to the club’s operational activities, provided support for equipment and branding, and offered financial assistance when required.
One of the most significant projects completed during the partnership was the construction of Rayon Sports’ training facility in Nzove. The facility, built at a reported cost of about Rwf100 million, was handed over to the club in September 2017.
In 2020, SKOL also provided accommodation facilities near the training ground with capacity to house up to 40 players.
The company further supported the club through bonuses for trophy successes, annual funding for team kits, and fan engagement initiatives, including the Rayon Sports Player of the Month award.
In July 2022, the two parties signed another sponsorship agreement reportedly worth more than Rwf1 billion over three years. That contract has now expired.
The end of the partnership comes months after Rayon Sports announced a five-year sponsorship agreement worth Rwf5.1 billion with Jayrutt Investment Ltd of Tanzania.
