Kochi: Kochi Pipers FC, one of the six franchises of the inaugural edition of the Super League Kerala (SLK), is all set to alter its name. The move comes in the wake of Mollywood actor-director Prithviraj Sukumaran and wife Supriya Menon acquiring a majority stake in the franchise.
It is learnt that the franchise will shed the word 'Pipers' from its name. For the time being, the side will be known as Kochi FC. Indian tennis great Mahesh Bhupathi, CEO of SG Sports and Entertainments, and his wife and actress-cum-model Lara Dutta, who were the franchise's major stakeholders, have ended their association with the club.
Apart from Prithviraj and Supriya, the other shareholders of Kochi FC are Nasly Mohammed, Praveesh Kuzhipally, Shameem Backer, and Mohammed Shyjal.
SLK Chief Executive Officer Mathew Joseph said that the actor's involvement will inspire and energise a significant number of youth. Supriya said she would strive to bring more female sports enthusiasts to the stadiums.
SLK Managing Director Firoz Meeran hoped that Prithviraj's presence would help in popularising the league among Malayalees from across the globe.
According to Kerala Football Association (KFA) president Navas Meeran, such investments are a boost for Kerala football and the sports economy of the state. "More participation from other industries will help the sport grow to the next level," he added.
Organised jointly by the KFA and Scoreline Sports Private Limited, the SLK is set to commence in September this year and will run for 45 days. The matches will be held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi, EMS Corporation Stadium, Kozhikode, and Sports Council Stadium, Manjeri.
The SLK promises to open a new world for Kerala football and help aspiring local footballers develop a more professional attitude towards the game. Apart from players from various Asian countries, proven footballers and coaches from Africa, Europe, and Latin America will be part of the league.
