Standard Bank has injected K250 million into Blue Eagles FC in a one-season sponsorship deal that gives the bank naming rights to the Super League leaders.

The Area 30-based side will compete as Standard Bank Blue Eagles FC during the sponsorship period, in what Malawi Police Service Inspector General and Blue Eagles patron Richard Luhanga has described as a boost to the club’s ambitions.

Luhanga has challenged the team to use the sponsorship to target qualification for the CAF Champions League next season.

“We will do everything to protect this sponsorship. Next season, our target is to play in the CAF Club Champions League,” said Luhanga.

Standard Bank Plc Chief Executive Phillip Madinga said the bank chose to partner with Blue Eagles because of the club’s discipline, resilience and strong community connection.

Madinga, a former Flames, University FC and Mighty Wanderers midfielder, said the K250 million investment is also aimed at supporting football and talent development in Malawi.

Blue Eagles Chief Administration Officer William Nkhoma has pledged to manage the sponsorship professionally and ensure the partnership delivers value to both parties.

The deal places Standard Bank among the biggest sponsors of domestic football this season.