Land of Fire sponsorship up in smoke?

Last updated : 04 September 2014 By C. Morris

Following today's news from Sheffield Wednesday that the proposed takeover by Azerbaijani businessman Hafiz Mammadov is off, doubts have also been raised about the clubs main sponsorship deal with Azerbaijan, Land of Fire.

Mr. Mammadov is a key player in the 'Land of Fire' brand which is used to promote the image and interest in the growing nation of Azerbaijan.

When the deal was announced in July it was said to be a lucrative one for the club and one which would be handled and managed independently of the takeover deal.

However, the statement that Milan Mandaric has made today suggests that as well as not meeting the obligations in respect of the turnover deal, Mammadov has also failed to meet some of the terms of the arrangements for the sponsorship of the club. Mandaric went on to state that his legal advisors would be investigating to determine if legal action would be required.

The Owls have worn the Azerbaijan Land of Fire logo on their shirts home and away this season including a live televised match on Sky Sports. The sponsor is also a sponsor of Spanish La Liga champions Atletico Madrid and it is thought that they would be eager to clarify the situation with the Owls in order to avoid the negative publicity that this news will bring.