PSL to rename first division after striking deal with CAF boss Patrice Mostepe's foundation

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) and the Motsepe Foundation have joined forces and announced a partnership that will go into immediate effect.

The Motsepe Foundation "secured" the necessary funding from companies affiliated with the "Motsepe Family" and will sponsor the National First Division (NFD).

Previously known as the GladAfrica Championship, the NFD will be renamed the "Motsepe Foundation Championship".

Patrice Motsepe, the co-founder and chairperson of the Motsepe Foundation, revealed that PSL boss Irvin Khoza dialled his number "urgently" to strike a deal.

"South African football has a long and proud history and has produced some of the most talented players in Africa and the world," said Motsepe.

"It is an honour for the Motsepe Foundation to make a humble contribution to the development and growth of South African football and making it amongst the best in Africa and globally.

"Dr Khoza contacted me yesterday and requested to meet urgently, and after talking to some of the Trustees of companies associated with the Motsepe Family, an agreement was reached to launch the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

"We would also like to thank the PSL and its chairperson, Irvin Khoza, for his relentless efforts to attract sponsors and partners to the PSL."

Motsepe is currently the president of the Confederation of African Football and relinquished his chairperson duties of Mamelodi Sundowns to his son Thlopie Motsepe last year.

Irvin Khoza, chairperson of the PSL, said: "We are grateful to the Motsepe Foundation for contributing to the sustainability and promotion of South African football.

"I am excited that my urgent request to the Motsepe Foundation for support was accepted and activated at such short notice.

"I knew that Patrice