Thirteen Botswana Premier League (BPL) clubs are locked in a significant dispute over the distribution of broadcasting rights revenue. They argue that a substantial portion currently allocated to the league secretariat should instead directly benefit the teams. These clubs have formally petitioned the league chairman, voicing concerns that the current allocation structure leaves them financially disadvantaged.
The Heart of the Dispute: Allocation Percentages
The national broadcasting rights for the league are valued at P5 million. Under the current resolution by the Botswana Football League (BFL) board, 36.8% (P1,840,000) is allocated to the clubs, while a larger 63.2% (P3,160,000) is directed to the league office for administrative operations.
The protesting clubs deem this distribution profoundly unfair. They are advocating for a dramatic shift to an 80/20 split, demanding that 80% (P4 million) of the P5 million goes directly into the hands of the teams, with only 20% (P1 million) retained by the league office to cover administrative fees.
Clubs’ Rationale and Threat of Action
The clubs emphasize their crucial role in bearing the direct financial burdens associated with weekly football activities. In their petition, they unequivocally state that any income or sponsorship intended for teams should primarily benefit them, not be diverted or relegate them to secondary beneficiaries.
The petition signatories include a formidable list of clubs: Calendar Stars, Extension Gunners, Mochudi Centre Chiefs, Police, Orapa United, Tafic, Black Lions, Township Rollers, Morupule Wanderers, Nico United, Gaborone United, Matebele, and Santa Green. It is notable, however, that BDF XI, Jwaneng Galaxy, and Sua Flamingoes did not join the petition.
Should their demands remain unaddressed, the clubs have issued a stark warning: they threaten to prevent their matches from being televised on national television.
League’s Perspective on Financial Operations
The Botswana Football League (BFL) board chairperson has acknowledged receipt of the clubs’ petition. The chairperson indicated that the proposed 80/20 split would have a detrimental impact on the league secretariat’s day-to-day operations, potentially crippling its ability to function effectively.
Highlighting the BFL’s structure as a private company owned by the 16 clubs, the chairperson explained that the secretariat is absolutely vital for organizing and managing competitions. This includes critical functions such as fixture management, referee appointments, and ensuring strict adherence to competition regulations.
Operational Challenges and Historical Context
The BFL has historically never received capital funding from its shareholder clubs, making it inherently dependent on sponsorship and broadcasting income. The chairperson recalled that in previous seasons, when television rights amounted to P8 million, each club received P200,000, with the remaining funds dedicated to supporting crucial league operations.
Furthermore, the league faces significant mandatory match-day expenses, which include payments for referees, security, medical services, and match commissioners, collectively amounting to approximately P3.6 million. The league warns that insufficient funding for the office would severely hinder smooth league operations, especially considering that the current broadcast revenue is already lower than in past years.
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