KFC inks $14 million Reggae Girlz sponsorship

Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) Jamaica has renewed its partnership with the Reggae Girlz, inking a new two-year sponsorship for the women’s national team valued at a combined $14 million during the latter’s FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign.

The partnership will see KFC invest $6 million in cash and $1 million in meals each year, extending a growing relationship between the fast-food giant and Jamaica’s women’s football.

KFC was also sponsor during the Girlz successful 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign. Is also had a two-year sponsorship with the team’s all-time leading goalscorer Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw.

The food giant has also sponsored the Jamaica Women’s Premier League (JWPL) for the past two seasons.

Andrei Roper, KFC’s marketing manager, said his organisation has also been keeping a close eye on the growth of women’s football and is proud to help create a platform for both the local league and the national team.

“For those familiar with KFC Jamaica’s mindset, you know we are no strangers to supporting sports development across all levels, especially at the youth level,” Roper explained.

“Over the past two years, we’ve paid close attention to the growth of women’s football and we see the talent and potential coming through the Women’s Premier League. We’re excited about what that pipeline can mean for the national programme and, ultimately, the world stage.”

Roper said KFC is excited to return as sponsor of the Reggae Girlz, who have continued to raise the bar and create history with their achievements on the field.

He said for the Girlz to continue to reach new heights, KFC is ready to play a supportive role by investing in their future.

SETTING STRONG FOUNDATIONS

“We believe in long-term development, in building platforms and setting strong foundations for growth,” he explained.

“That is why we are proud to be back on board, supporting a team that continues to represent the country with pride as they move closer to another historic World Cup appearance. To the Reggae Girlz, thank you for what you continue to do for Jamaica. You are true ambassadors for the sport and for the nation.”

Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) president, Michael Ricketts, welcomed KFC’s renewed partnership and said it comes at an integral time for the women’s programme.

As the Girlz continue their quest for a third consecutive World Cup appearance, Ricketts said it is important for the team to have see such a strong commitment from a returning sponsor.

“We welcome KFC’s strong return and continued belief in the Reggae Girlz,” Ricketts said.

“This support comes at an important time as we continue to build on our momentum. Their commitment allows us to strengthen our systems, better support our players and remain competitive at the highest level.”

The Girlz will continue their quest to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup as they turn their attentions to the Concacaf W Championship.

The W Championship, set to be played in November later this year, will serve as the qualifying tournament for the Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

gregory.bryce@gleanerjm.com