R5 million prize tag block renaming of Gallants to Celtic

The proposed relocation of Limpopo based DSTV Premiership team, Marumo Gallants to Free State province and ultimately rename it is almost a done deal with few things set to be outlined in coming days.

According to a source privy to the negotiations the province will have a PSL team next season.

“They applied to the PSL to have their remaining home games be moved to Bloemfontein.

They were also waiting for feedback from supporters meeting to hear if they do get the go ahead from the supporters.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is going to be signed, that stipulates how much is the National Executive Committee (NEC) getting from gate takings.”

Another source said they approached Max Tshabalala for the name and he asked for R5 million.

“The whole idea is to get the team relocate to Bloemfontein permanently next season, change name and colours and also have a blended management.

They approached Max Tshabalala who bought the team from former player and owner, Jimmy Augusti to get the BLOEMFONTEIN CELTIC name and he wanted R5 Million.

The house decided to leave him alone and will come up with a new name once everything has been agreed upon.”

It remains to be seen if the Free State Provincial Government and the embattled Mangaung Metro have learnt anything from the Bloemfontein Celtic saga otherwise this team will also be sold.

All Kwazulu Natal teams get financial backing from Durban Tourism and that goes a long way to assist teams.

It’s interesting that the letter from Gallants was read by Kenny Lichabe who heads Free State Gambling and Tourism Authority and they did nothing for Celtic when it needed financial support.

Apart from the financial support from government Gallants will benefit from gate takings, merchandise and more importantly, the profile of the team will elevate their brand.

Max Tshabalala could not be reached for a comment.

If you have news or tips please email us news@stepupsanews.co.za or WhatsApp 0685000246