KFC Jamaica backs Magic of Ronaldinho with $1.6-m sponsorship

KFC Jamaica has committed $1.6 million in cash and meal support to The Magic of Ronaldinho, a landmark football celebration set to welcome Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho to Jamaica for a historic visit. The celebration will also honour the iconic Reggae Boyz squad that made history for Jamaica at the 1998 FIFA World Cup. The partnership was announced at the event’s official press launch at Jamaica Pegasus hotel on November 11, when organisers outlined plans for the festivities in December. Among those present was Walter Boyd, former Reggae Boyz striker and member of the historic 1998 squad. The excitement surrounding Ronaldinho’s visit has been years in the making. Robert Dabdoub, chairman of the organising committee, said plans to bring the Brazilian star to Jamaica began approximately three years ago. Ronaldinho had also long expressed an interest in visiting the island, and with the support of several partners, that ambition is finally becoming a reality. For KFC, the occasion is another opportunity to build on its relationship with Jamaican sport. The brand has been a long-time supporter of schoolboy football through their sponsorship of the ISSA Manning Cup, daCosta Cup and Champions Cup competitions, including their $18-million investment in this current 2026 season. KFC has also championing women’s football with $14-million sponsorship of the Reggae Girlz and a $6-million investment in the 2025/2026 Jamaica Women’s Premier League season. Beyond football, its support has also extended to youth basketball, youth track and field and other sporting initiatives. “Jamaica has a remarkable football story, one built on talent, determination and moments that have captured the imagination of an entire nation. At KFC, we recognise the importance of investing in that story, not only by celebrating those who have made history, but by supporting the next generation with the potential to do the same,” said Kandine West, marketing officer at KFC Jamaica. “The Magic of Ronaldinho brings those two worlds together. It is a celebration of football greatness, but also a reminder of what the sport represents for Jamaica and the possibilities it continues to create. We are proud to play a part in an experience that honours our football heritage while inspiring the talent that will shape its future.” The Magic of Ronaldinho will unfold across two major events, beginning with a tribute dinner at AC Hotel Kingston on December 4. The evening will celebrate Ronaldinho’s extraordinary career while paying tribute to the 1998 Reggae Boyz, whose World Cup journey remains a defining moment in Jamaican football. On December 6, the action moves to the National Stadium, where Ronaldinho & Friends will go up against Jamaica Legends in a 7:30 pm exhibition match. Before the football icons take the field, there will be an All-Manning Cup versus All-daCosta Cup encounter at 4:30 pm, giving some of Jamaica’s emerging schoolboy talent a place in the festivities.