Crystal Palace unveil new controversial shirt sponsor but some fans still not happy with 'record' deal

Some Crystal Palace fans have taken to social media to criticize the club’s decision to sign a record shirt sponsorship deal with Asian betting company ‘NET88’ as their new front-of-shirt sponsor.

NET88 will appear on the front of the Eagles’ shirts for the next two seasons. The deal, which Palace describes as a record deal, will feature the betting company’s logo on their shirts for the next two seasons before a new rule comes into play.

The Premier League has agreed that after the next two seasons, clubs won't be able to display betting companies on the front of their jerseys.

Palace’s statement on the NET88 deal read: “Crystal Palace have announced NET88 will feature as the men’s official front-of-shirt sponsor for the 2024/25 season. The record two-year deal will see NET88 become a principal club partner, with its logo also featured on the official training wear. In addition to the shirt branding, NET88, which provides online gaming services, will also receive visibility across Selhurst Park on matchdays and the website.”

What some of the fans have said

Some are not happy with the deal, taking to X, formerly Twitter, to voice their concerns. Richard Garland with the handle @Richardtgarland said: “Gambling ads need to be removed from sport.”

Another fan, Steve, with the handle @UpperTierSteve, said: “Will we be able to purchase shirts without a front-of-shirt sponsor?.”

Julian Chenery, with the handle @Julianchenery, said: “Disappointing to be associating ourselves with a gambling company again.”

Palace looking to build on a strong end

On the field, Palace ended last season as one of the most in-form sides and will be looking to build on that when the new season comes around. The Eagles finished 10th in the league table, their first top-flight finish historically.