Global football icon and Betway brand ambassador Thierry Henry experienced the passion of South African football when Orlando Pirates defeated Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 in the Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium on Saturday, 31 October.
Henry played a special role in the highly anticipated Betway Premiership encounter, carrying the match ball onto the field as thousands of supporters created an electric atmosphere at the stadium.
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The former Arsenal and France striker also handed over a R30,000 cash prize to the winner of Betway’s S’bonise & Win campaign. The supporter was recognised for proudly displaying their team spirit by wearing Orlando Pirates colours and regalia.
Reflecting on the experience, Henry said the atmosphere and passion surrounding the Soweto Derby made it a memorable occasion, despite having witnessed some of the biggest football rivalries around the world.
The singing and chanting in the stands and team colours worn with pride, you could feel how much football means to South Africans,” said Henry.
He added that seeing Pirates and Chiefs supporters passionately backing their respective teams while sharing the occasion stood out as a unique aspect of South African football culture.
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Jason Shield, Head of Sponsorship at Betway Africa, said Henry’s involvement provided an opportunity to showcase South Africa’s football culture to a global audience.
The Soweto Derby is one of those occasions that shows the very best of South African football, from the passion in the stands to the rivalry on the pitch,” said Shield.
He added that the S’bonise & Win campaign also allowed Betway to recognise and reward supporters for their continued passion for the game.
The occasion came as the Premier Soccer League (PSL) celebrates 30 years of South African football, with the Soweto Derby once again highlighting the rivalry, passion and shared love of football that continue to make it one of the country’s biggest sporting spectacles.