The winners of the Federation Cup will walk away with Sh50 million and will represent the country in the 2017 CAF Confederation Cup
Dar es Salaam. Azam Media Limited has agreed to sponsor the Federation Cup (formerly FA Cup) to the tune of Sh3.3 billion, the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) said yesterday.
The TFF announced the reintroduction of the tournament recently after a 13-year hiatus. JKT Ruvu Stars were the champions of the last edition.
The TFF competitions committee chairman, Geoffrey Nyange, told reporters yesterday that the Federation Cup will involve 64 clubs, 24 from the first division league, 24 second division sides and 16 Premier League outfits.
Nyange, who doubles as the Simba SC vice chairman, said the tournament will go for seven rounds and that the Premier League teams will start their campaign in the second round, which will comprise 32 teams.
The tournament dubbed Azam Sports Federation Cup (ASFC) will kick off on November 1.
This is the first time for the championship to attract sponsors since its introduction in 1967.
Speaking at the same occasion, TFF president Jamal Malinzi thanked Azam Media Limited for their support, adding that the tournament will act as a catalyst for the growth of soccer in our country.
“I am happy for the return of this competition. It has been on and off. However, it’s back and for the first time in history, we have secured sponsorship, and all matches will be broadcast live through Azam TV channels,” said Malinzi.
“This is a new chapter as far as football development is concerned. Our teams from lower leagues have a chance to compete with the topflight sides. This will certainly help unearth talents and build their confidence.”
Malinzi added: “I will be a happier man should a team from the lower leagues manage to clinch the title.”
The TFF boss hinted that plans were in the pipeline to introduce other competitions like the Super Cup and Women’s National League.
The winners of the Federation Cup will walk away with Sh50 million and will represent the country in the 2017 CAF Confederation Cup.
