Pakistan Super League (PSL) made a significant announcement on Friday, revealing KFC as its official snack partner. However, this decision sparked the #BoycottPSL trend on social media platforms, particularly X, where Pakistani fans expressed their dissent. The disapproval was linked to the ongoing Israeli brutalities against the innocent citizens of Palestine.
HBL PSL 🤝 @kfc_pk
We’re thrilled to announce KFC Pakistan is now an official snacks partner for #HBLPSL9!#KhulKeKhel pic.twitter.com/bNSRXbM1o3
— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) February 16, 2024
KFC, owned by Yum! Brands, which also oversees Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and The Habit Burger Grill, faced criticism due to its association with providing free food to Israeli soldiers involved in actions against Palestinians. Given the heightened political climate and Pakistan’s sentiments toward the Israel-Palestine conflict, the PSL’s partnership with KFC triggered a wave of criticism.
Social Media Storm
On platforms like Twitter, fans voiced their opinions, initiating a social media storm. Some individuals took a balanced approach, acknowledging that the KFC brand also contributes to generating income in Pakistan. They urged against extreme measures of boycott in this matter. On the other hand, some fans labeled the trend as ‘hypocritical,’ highlighting the complexity of opinions within the fanbase.
PSL’s Sponsorship Landscape
Amidst the controversy, the Pakistan Super League announced several sponsors for the upcoming season, including TikTok, Osaka Batteries, Tapal Danedar, along with KFC. The league is set to kick off at 7:00 pm with a match between Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United in Gaddafi Stadium. Prior to the game, a star-studded opening ceremony is scheduled at 6:30 pm, featuring performances by renowned artists such as Ali Zafar, Aima Baig, Arif Lohar, and Noori.
The controversy surrounding the KFC partnership adds an extra layer of attention to the much-anticipated PSL season, highlighting the intersection of sports, politics, and public sentiment.
