FootballBeer brands are collecting South African clubs
Amstel has added AmaZulu to Orlando Pirates, and Carling backs Kaizer Chiefs. Meanwhile, AmaZulu's shirt sponsor of more than 40 years has gone.
On 30 October 2026, Business of Sports Africa reported that Amstel will appear on the sleeve of AmaZulu FC, the Durban club founded in 1932, for the 2026/27 season.
A growing portfolio
AmaZulu is Amstel's second big club in the Betway Premiership. The brand has been Orlando Pirates' official beer partner since August 2025, in a five-year deal, and since January 2026 the club's home ground has been called the Orlando Amstel Arena. In South Africa, Amstel belongs to Heineken Beverages. Its rival Carling Black Label is an official partner of Kaizer Chiefs and gives its name to the league's Carling Knockout cup.
Even long deals end
AmaZulu also shows the other side. SPAR, its shirt sponsor for more than 40 years, left after the 2023/24 season, together with sleeve sponsor Grindrod. The club has since signed new partners, including Amstel and Mitsubishi Motors, which renewed in August 2026.
What it means
At the top of South African football, the beer category is crowded: a new beer brand will find few big clubs left. For clubs, AmaZulu's story is a reminder that even a 40-year sponsor can leave, so value has to be proven every season.
Also: Afrik-Foot, 16 July 2024.
Source: Business of Sports Africa, 30 October 2026. Figures as reported by the source.
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