Industriales become first Cuban team to wear sponsor

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 8 Oct, 18:55 · Archive

Cuba's Industriales baseball team has debuted a jersey with a private sponsor's logo, the first in the league's 65-year history.

Cuba's flagship baseball team Industriales has become the first team in the 65-year history of Cuba's National Baseball Series to wear a private sponsor's logo. The Havana-based team displayed the logo of A Granel, a privately owned fuel distribution company, on their traditional white-and-blue jerseys and on the outfield wall at Estadio Latinoamericano, their home stadium.

The development marks a significant shift in Cuba's approach to sports. For decades, the country championed amateurism in sports, arguing that professionalism commodified the game and exploited athletes' talent. However, restrictions have begun to loosen over the last decade, with some players now permitted to compete abroad or join lucrative leagues.

Industriales manager Guillermo Carmona told the Associated Press: 'I think it's a good idea. New measures are being taken, and there is a shift in many policies across the country. I believe this is something that will help.' Juan Reinaldo Pérez Pardo, president of the National Baseball Federation, confirmed that private sponsorship is allowed under new regulations approved last year. Both said the sponsorship, which supports the entire team rather than individual athletes, will help improve conditions.

How it is being reported

• Industriales become first Cuban baseball team to wear a private sponsor logoCuba's flagship baseball team, Industriales, has debuted a jersey with a private sponsor's logo.Clickorlando · 8 Oct, 18:07
• Industriales become first Cuban baseball team to wear a private sponsor logoCuba's flagship baseball team, Industriales, has debuted a jersey with a private sponsor's logo.News4Jax · 8 Oct, 18:07

In this story: Industriales · Cuba · A Granel · Havana · Guillermo Carmona · Juan Reinaldo Pérez Pardo · Estadio Latinoamericano

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