In a monumental development for African football, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced Visit Saudi as the primary sponsor for the Inaugural African Football League (AFL). The AFL is set to feature the highest-ranked and most successful football clubs on the African continent and promises to be a game-changer for the sport.
Scheduled to kick off from October 20 to November 11, 2023, this partnership signifies a profound connection between African football and Saudi tourism, uniting two worlds driven by their unwavering passion for the beautiful game.
The collaboration between the AFL and Visit Saudi is founded on a shared enthusiasm for this partnership, with both parties open to the possibility of extending it for future editions of the AFL. Their dedication is rooted in the belief that this venture will significantly contribute to the development and global competitiveness of African football while also promoting Saudi tourism.
This sponsorship deal holds immense promise for the AFL, which boasts the highest prize money and is the most competitive club football competition on the African continent. The success of the AFL is not only poised to elevate the sport but will also play a crucial role in establishing youth academies for both boys and girls and improving football infrastructure in the 54 countries represented by CAF’s Member Associations.
The Inaugural AFL will see participation from eight renowned clubs: Al Ahly SC (Egypt), Enyimba FC (Nigeria), Espérance Sportive de Tunis (Tunisia), Mamelodi Sundowns FC (South Africa), Atlético Petróleos de Luanda (Angola), Simba SC (Tanzania), TP Mazembe (DR Congo), and Wydad AC (Morocco). This elite competition promises to be a grand celebration of African football excellence and a significant leap forward for the sport in the region. Football enthusiasts can look forward to a thrilling tournament that showcases the best clubs from across the continent.