The Premier Soccer League has confirmed further details about the Betway Premiership trophy, confirming it will be designed by internationally renowned artist, Nelson Makamo and only unveiled in May 2025.
Makamo has partnered with Betway as the creative and cultural spearhead in a first-of-its-kind design journey that will culminate in the unveiling of the Betway Premiership Trophy towards the end of this inaugural season.
In line with its commitment to South African football, the Betway Premiership Trophy will be presented to the PSL as its Lifetime Trophy, signifying Betway’s unwavering commitment to future-proofing South African football for generations to come.
As he began his creative odyssey into the heart of South African football heritage, Makamo recently met with PSL Chairman, Dr Irvin Khoza at the PSL’s headquarters, as part of his research phase.
“It was an honour to meet the Chairman. There was no way this project could have started without first receiving his blessing, because he knows so much about the history and legacy of football,” Makamo, who was named after Nelson ‘Teenage’ Dladla explained.
“I can say that football really is in my blood. I know what it has done for us as a people, and when I received this call, I was humbled by the opportunity and the responsibility given to me,” he said.
“I have worked around the world, but this project means so much to me because it is something that we will look at years from now and be proud of what we have created,” Makamo said of the new trophy design.
Dr Khoza welcomed the appointment of Makamo, pointing out that football and art are both deeply ingrained across South African culture.
“I was very excited when I heard that Betway are working with a talent of Nelson Makamo’s calibre. Football and art are about expression, emotion and people. Nelson Makamo’s work speaks for itself and having now met him, I know he has a deep passion for football and the game’s history in this country. I am so proud that this trophy will be created by one of our own, to celebrate the very best of us,” Dr Khoza said.
“I am a football fan first. So, I want to see this new trophy for the first time when the rest of South Africa sees it. I love surprises, and I cannot wait to see what Nelson Makamo creates,” concluded the PSL Chairman.
Over the next few months, Makamo’s creative journey will take him across the country, as he finds inspiration from the past and present of the Betway Premiership, before unveiling the trophy in May.
Football lovers are invited to follow Makamo’s creative process over the next six months. Regular updates of his research, inspiration and creation phases of the #BetwayPremTrophy will be shared across all Betway and PSL social pages.
Developments of the Betway Premiership Trophy design and production will officially be communicated jointly by the PSL and Betway in due course.
Information from a press release by the PSL.
