Trust Khosa Lifestyle Writer A new wave of celebrities attending the ongoing Castle Lager Premier League soccer matches has injected fresh energy into Zimbabwean football. They come in all shapes and sizes, clad in an assortment of football regalia, giving football a new grandeur. Rufaro Stadium in Harare has come under the spotlight in recent weeks due to this new phenomenon making headlines. Colourful and attention-seeking fans are suddenly showing up in numbers to support some of the newly-promoted soccer teams. Socialites, comedians, popular city dealers, gold barons and super fans, all donning daring outfits, have been drawn into this vibrant scene. The trend marks a significant shift in football circles, as these high-profile figures bring a sense of glamour and excitement to the sport. This newfound enthusiasm has been largely popularised by Premier Soccer League newcomers, Scottland FC, affectionately known as Mabviravira. Their ambitious approach, highlighted by a busy transfer window where they have secured top local talent, has made them a formidable presence in the league. The buzz surrounding the club is undeniable, as they emerge as the talk of the town. Mabviravira, as they are popularly known, have literally taken over the city with their high-profile signings of administrators, coaching staff and even supporters. Moreover, some top super fans from rival clubs have jumped on the bandwagon, eager to be associated with the club of the moment. This has split opinions, with some people questioning the super fans’ allegiance. Zimdancehall hype-man DJ Fantan, a loyal supporter since Scottland FC’s Division 1 days, appears to have inspired other celebrities to fill the stands at Rufaro. Besides Scottland FC, MWOS FC, which used to play home matches at Ngoni Stadium in Norton, and Simba Bhora of Shamva, also have soccer-mad followers. This convergence of socialites and football has not only raised the appeal of the matches but also created a unique cultural phenomenon that blends sports and lifestyle. These colourful scenes were popular in lower divisions and social soccer matches post-Covid-19 era. Attendance at PSL soccer matches dwindled post Covid-19, with most fans preferring social soccer matches. However, there has been a huge shift, with the hype and demand for local social soccer being quite amazing. Many questions have arisen about what could have caused this buzz all of a sudden. Others have questioned why some people have suddenly fallen in love with soccer following the promotion of moneybags like Scottland and MWOS, the two outfits believed to be associated with wealthy men. For instance, Scottland FC matches at Rufaro are now wooing top celebrities, including radio personalities, musicians, comedians and city dealers. A picture of ZiFM Stereo presenter MisRed sitting close to Enzo Ishall and other top musicians has been circulating on social media. Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association president, Joseph Mutawu, added his views to the debate. “As we are all aware, Scottland FC and MWOS FC are the new kids on the block in our local football, with heavy financial backing from their owners. These established business team owners are, in turn, attracting their business associates to the football matches of the teams they own. Every person with business directly or indirectly linked to these team owners attends matches to show allegiance and gain favour with the bosses. What is good for the goose is good for the gander,” stressed Mutawu. The affable cheerleader noted that the PSL debutants were administered by strategists. “These rich clubs have also come up with a strategy and package to woo supporters to their matches. They are paying for their fans to watch their matches. Recently, we have seen how Scottland FC gifted cars to its fans. We have seen MWOS FC’s president employing football fans at his bus company. The provision of free transport for fans to the matches attracts people to these particular teams’ matches.” He also noted that some top celebrities were attending soccer matches for allegiance’s sake. “We have also seen that other celebrities have their sons playing for these teams. So in turn, celebrities come along with their friends to support their kids. “Socialites are not paid to attend matches, but they will be looking for business. If the money has gone to football, it follows that the socialites must attend football matches to get business deals from the club owners and their associates,” he said. Mutawu’s sentiments resonate strongly with the emerging wave of support for new football teams, particularly as several celebrities have been seen at matches involving Scottland and MWOS, who have established business ties with team owners. Notable figures such as Killer T, Enzo Ishall, DJ Fantan and Jah Signal have been spotted proudly wearing Scottland regalia. Amidst the ongoing debate, super-fan Richard “Chemhofela” Sande made headlines by dramatically switching his allegiance from CAPS United to Scottland. Chemhofela joins another former Dynamos diehard, simply known as Boban, in jumping ship. But it is Chemhofela, whose blood was green until last weekend when he joined Mabviravira, making headlines. He expressed that there is nothing inappropriate about this new wave of support. “I have been closely observing the trend since the start of the season, and it’s evident that loyalty is alive and well when top celebrities and business executives turn out in large numbers at stadiums to back these new teams,” Chemhofela remarked. “It’s heartening to see partners and friends of club owners coming together to show their solidarity. Stadiums have evolved into meeting points where people can connect and discuss their ventures.” Regarding his decision to join Scottland FC, Chemhofela clarified, “It’s well-known that I have supported CAPS United for many years, but I had to make a choice after consulting with my family to join Scottland. “At Scottland FC, it’s not just about football; it’s about networking with the right people who can truly change your life.” Nonetheless, traditional football giants like Highlanders, Dynamos and CAPS United continue to boast dedicated fan bases. One such devoted supporter is Chris “Romario” Musekiwa, a lifelong Dynamos fan. He weighed in on the ongoing discourse with insights aimed at his fellow cheerleaders. “First and foremost, let me assert that I am a Dynamos fan through and through — my blood is blue,” Musekiwa declared. “The obvious reason some fans are now attending Scottland FC and MWOS FC matches is their desire to witness the new players who were signed during the transfer period. “Additionally, many socialites and celebrities frequent these matches in search of opportunities from club owners or influential figures associated with them. For instance, Scottland FC owner Scott Sakupwanya is a wealthy individual who surrounds himself with rich people. It’s clear that people are drawn here for potential opportunities.” He also offered his perspective on high-profile soccer fans who have switched allegiances, stating, “I can’t say much on that front, as we’re dealing with adults who have the right to make their own decisions. “I’m unsure what motivated them to make those choices, but in my case, I firmly believe that loyalty pays off. I will not abandon Dynamos for other teams because it embodies a spirit and a legacy. Loyalty is invaluable.” At Highlanders, there’s also Mayibongwe “Mgijimi” Mkhweli, a passionate supporter who was crowned the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League’s 2024 Fan of the Year. Known for his Afro wig and spirited runs along the touchline, especially at Barbourfields Stadium, he is a revered super fan who has been honoured by the club. For him to switch allegiance would be shocking and considered taboo in Bulawayo. The trend we are witnessing today is merely history repeating itself. Zimbabwe has seen soccer clubs once owned by wealthy individuals that ultimately folded, such as Gunners FC, Monomotapa, Douglas Warriors, Blackpool, Amazulu and Lengthens, among others. These clubs boasted fervent super fans who eagerly sought associations with wealthy individuals upon recognising lucrative business opportunities. While the concept of loyalty is often easier to discuss than to practice, the emerging trends in Zimbabwe have sparked significant debate. It remains to be seen whether these alliances will endure over time.