Antony Chawagarira
Businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo has pledged to buy a brand-new 65-seater bus for Dynamos FC and reward the players with US$50 000 following the club’s defeat to arch-rivals CAPS United FC in the Harare Derby played at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.
The high-profile fixture drew thousands of supporters and reignited one of Zimbabwe’s biggest football rivalries, with CAPS United emerging victorious in a match widely praised for its electric atmosphere and passionate fan support.
In a lengthy statement released after the game, Chivayo said he was impressed by the overwhelming support shown by Dynamos fans and insisted he would honour a promise he made before the match, despite the team losing.
“A passionate Dynamos supporter had requested that in the event Dembare wins, I should buy the club a brand-new bus. Whilst the result unfortunately did not go their way, I appreciated the overwhelming love shown by the Dynamos supporters,” said Chivayo.
He added that Dynamos remains an important institution in Zimbabwean football and society.
“Dynamos is a household name and part of Zimbabwe’s football history. I therefore refuse to reduce myself into someone who only stands by his word when circumstances are favourable,” he said.
He clarified that the gesture was not a sponsorship arrangement but rather an appreciation of the supporters who filled the stadium.
Dynamos, popularly known as DeMbare or the Glamour Boys, remain one of Zimbabwe’s most supported football clubs and commands a huge following across the country.
