It has been 19 years since Lucas Radebe last stepped onto the Elland Road field to bid farewell to his beloved Leeds United. Now, at the age of 54, “Rhoo” continues to be the target of a multitude of brands who want to associate themselves with the former Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana great. Soccer Laduma’s Delmain Faver met up with the revered star at the launch of the Lay’s UEFA Champions League experience where the ‘Chief’ shared his secrets, his Champions League experience and why he thinks it’s vital for the likes of Siphiwe Tshabalala and Teko Modise to carry the baton from his generation.
Delmain Faver: Lucas, you are one of the most loved figures by Soccer Laduma readers and football fans at large. You are here representing Lay’s, a reputable chips brand and a partner of the UEFA Champions League. How did this partnership come about?
Lucas Radebe: I think first of all is the credibility of the brand, and the quality of the brand. And again, the association, because you don’t actually associate yourself with just everyone. Lay’s is big in football I mean, the (UEFA) Champions League is absolutely massive and that’s the brand we grew up supporting as youngsters. And for me, it’s not about the business side of it, but it’s the relationship with the brand because obviously it goes both ways. It enhances my brand. We’ve got a lot in common in terms of brand connection with communities, which for me is big once you look after your consumers.
