Betway SA20's record Season 4 delivers R6.5-billion boost to SA economy

As Betway SA20 builds towards its milestone fifth season, the independently assessed economic impact of Season 4 has underlined the League's growing contribution to South Africa, generating R6.5-billion in GDP contribution and creating or sustaining almost 9 500 jobs across the country.

Season 4 has underlined the League's growing contribution to South Africa, generating R6.5 billion in GDP contribution

The final Season 4 Economic Impact Assessment (EIA) records the League's strongest economic performance to date, with increases across direct expenditure, GDP contribution, employment and household income.

A record-breaking Season 4 saw attendances increase by 13%, with 22 of the 34 matches selling out across the six host cities. The Final sold out in record time for the fourth consecutive season, further establishing Betway SA20 as one of the marquee events of the South African summer.

The growth in attendance and activity surrounding the League helped drive direct expenditure to R2.2-billion, up from R1.8-billion in Season 3. This translated into a R6.5-billion contribution to GDP, representing a 23% increase year-on-year.

The League's contribution to employment also grew significantly, with 9 470 annualised jobs created or sustained across South Africa, up 16% from Season 3, while household income increased from R1.4-billion to R1.7-billion.

League Commissioner Graeme Smith said the independently assessed results demonstrate how the League's growth is increasingly translating into wider economic value.

"Four seasons in, we can see the impact of Betway SA20 extending well beyond what happens on the field. A R6.5-billion contribution to GDP, almost 9 500 jobs supported and R1.7-billion in household income are significant numbers and demonstrate the broader value that a successful South African sporting property can create.

"As we head into our fifth season, our ambition is not only to continue growing the League but to deepen that impact across cricket, our host cities and the wider South African economy."

The assessment also reflects the economic activity generated across SA20's six host cities and the role of its six Indian Premier League (IPL)-backed franchises in driving investment, attendance and activity in their respective markets.

"What is particularly encouraging is that this impact is being generated across the country," Smith added. "Our six franchises and host cities have been fundamental to the League's growth from day one. Every full stadium brings people into these cities, supports local businesses and creates opportunities around the event. As the League grows, we want that contribution to grow with it."

Season 4 also saw Betway SA20 continue to expand its social impact footprint. The League raised R500 000 for social impact partner Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and provided more than 400 young Laureus beneficiaries with the opportunity to experience live cricket.

The Season 4 results provide a strong foundation as Betway SA20 prepares for its fifth edition, beginning on 17 January 2027. The build-up to the milestone season will gather momentum with the Season 5 Player Auction on 7 October, ahead of another summer featuring some of the world's leading T20 players. Fans can register now for the Season 5 early-access ticket pre-sale, giving them first pick of seats before tickets go on general sale, including tickets for the Playoffs and Final.