VTM FC gives away status
In a surprising move that has captured the attention of the football community, he Kweneng-based, VTM FC has exchanged their Premier League status with the newly registered Black Lions FC, a team competing in the Kweneng Regional FA Division 2.
In an interview on Tuesday, VTM's Managing Director, Vincent Mafuta, revealed that the decision was not driven by financial considerations. Instead, he expressed a desire to concentrate on the growth and development of his business signaling a strategic shift in priorities for VTM Security.
Last season, VTM FC made headlines when they announced the dissolution of the club, only to make a surprising return to the Premier League just a few months later. This season, however, the team has taken a different approach by swapping their Premier League status for a spot in the Kweneng Regional FA Division 2. This decision marks a significant shift for the club, as they will now be competing in a lower division. Managing Director Vincent Mafuta explained that this move was not made lightly, it was the result of extensive deliberation over a long period.
Mafuta emphasized that VTM FC's connection to VTM Security plays a crucial role in their decision-making process. He noted that the outcomes in football directly impact their business operations, leading to the conclusion that focusing on business development is paramount. He said that In Botswana, the football landscape is challenging, with many clubs struggling to turn a profit. Mafuta pointed out that running a football club often resembles operating at a loss, prompting VTM FC to prioritize their business interests over competitive aspirations in the sport.
'We will now be focusing on the development of players,' he further explained, 'With the current players, their contracts have come to an end, and we believe this is the right time to reassess our strategy moving forward.' Mafuta emphasized the importance of nurturing talent and building a strong foundation for the future, indicating that the club is committed to investing in player development and creating a sustainable model for success in the long run.
Mafuta highlighted that there was no exchange of money involved in the transaction, clarifying that it was not a sale but rather a swap between the two clubs. He emphasized that the decision was made purely for strategic reasons, without any financial implications.
Black Lions, who are linked with former Township Rollers investor, Tendai Sebata, will now be a Premier League team, replacing VTM FC. VTM FC has played two seasons in the Premier League, having been promoted back in 2023 through the first division playoffs. In the Premier League, they performed well and were never in a relegation situation, finishing in ninth place last season.