Gupta’s Power sponsorship deal set to lead to Whyalla AFL practice match next year

The new sponsorship between Sanjeev Gupta and Port Adelaide could lead to an AFL pre-season match coming to the Eyre Peninsula at an upgraded Whyalla ground.

• Sanjeev Gupta agrees to power Port
• Gavin Wanganeen joins Port Adelaide as club director

British billionaire and Whyalla steel works owner Sanjeev Gupta’s five-year sponsorship of Port Adelaide is set to lead to a JLT Community Challenge match in Whyalla next year.

Collaborations between Port Adelaide, Gupta’s company the Gupta Family Group (GFG), Whyalla and the AFL are underway with plans for an upgrade of a local football ground to meet the league’s requirements.

An AFL official was optimistic about the plans as Gupta’s personal investment in the football club was announced at Alberton over the weekend.

Port Adelaide chairman David Koch said the Eyre Peninsula had been a close ally to the club through its previous recruiting zone there over the decades and confirmed the plans to expand links with the region.

A fantastic occasion at Alberton Oval this morning as our partnership with @GFGAlliance begins in front of family, members and friends, and what an exciting time ahead! 😍 #weareportadelaide pic.twitter.com/z0gVUJRU6H

— Port Adelaide FC (@PAFC) February 9, 2019

“We are in discussions with the AFL to host a JLT pre-season game in Whyalla next year as part of our 150-year anniversary for our club,” Koch said.

“It’s well documented that Sanjeev and GFG have achieved what they have achieved in Whyalla and his commitment to contribute to that community for their growth alongside the industry.

“We congratulate Sanjeev his vision and confidence in Whyalla.

Port Adelaide announce Sanjeev Gupta's GFG as new joint major sponsor. Port Adelaide chairman David Koch, player Patrick Ryder and Sanjeev Gupta. Picture: Tom Huntley

“But at Port Adelaide we’re a little biased because Whyalla and the Eyre Peninsula have been part of our footy club for many, many years, in fact many decades.

“After all, this is part of our regional heartland.

“The Eyre Peninsula has been a major breeding ground for our club since the 1970s and our membership is very strong in Whyalla and the surrounding areas.

“In partnership with GFG we will increase our engagement across the Eyre Peninsula to new levels.

“And next week we will take our entire playing group and coaches for a community camp in Whyalla.”