MOTORSPORT in Namibia was on Tuesday dealt a severe blow with the announcement that Total had withdrawn its sponsorship from the Total Tara Rally.
“Total Namibia has taken a decision to discontinue its sponsorship of the Tara Rally for 2016. It was a decision that was not taken lightly, particularly in view of the fact that Total has a long history with the Tara Rally in Windhoek, ” Total said is a statement issued to the media.
Total Namibia’s MD, Naftal Kakwambi said they affirmed their commitment to Namibia but were looking at exploring other marketing opportunities.
“Over the past two years, Total has been busy with revamping the service stations with a new look and new offers and putting forecourt employees in new uniforms. There is a new advertising campaign about to be launched and we are exploring other marketing opportunities. It is an exciting time for Total as we affirm our commitment to this country and this continent, ” he said.
“Total wishes the Windhoek Motor Club well in its endeavours and extends its gratitude for delivering the logistics of the Tara Rally year after year, ” he added.
The Total Tara Rally was one of Namibia’s most enduring international sporting events. It made its debut in 1969 and since then was held every year, with last year’s event being the 47th consecutive rally.
The event has also been one of the biggest sponsorships in Namibian sport with last year’s sponsorship by Total Namibia amounting to N$500 000.
Last year’s event, which was won by Richard Slamet and Wiets Coetzee was however marked by controversy after the second placed Wilro Dippenaar and Riaan van der Westhuizen withdrew out of protest at officiating inconsistencies.
Total Namibia later conducted an investigation and declared the results of last year’s rally null and void.
