Top 5 — Cricket West Indies is Officially Debt‑Free Thanks to World Cup Windfall
PLUS: Reggae Boyz reveal new sponsors, Dominican Republic secures annual IRONMAN event, and more
Whatsup Squad,
Let’s jump into the top stories of the week:
⭐️ FEATURE STORY
CWI is Officially Debt‑Free Thanks to World Cup Windfall
Cricket West Indies (CWI) made record earnings from the 2024 ICC World Cup, clearing all debts in the process, according to its latest annual report.
In 2024, revenue totaled $88 million (up 33% year over year). Half of that came from World Cup distribution deals and hosting rights.
The tournament also generated over $1 billion for the economies of the host nations and set new benchmarks for viewership, with 1.3 billion digital video views (a 150% increase from the previous edition).
“The successful execution of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the Caribbean was not just a sporting triumph but an economic milestone, reinforcing the Caribbean as a premier destination for global cricket.”
- CWI President Dr Kishore Shallow
At the Caribbean Investment Summit (CIS25), Shallow and CEO Chris Dehring pitched cricket as a gateway for regional growth and unveiled plans to transform Coolidge Cricket Ground (Antigua) into a vibrant, multi-use complex that merges sport, culture, entertainment, and innovation.
Bottom Line: A clean balance sheet and a marquee infrastructure project position Caribbean cricket as a prime target for investors and sports‑tourism dollars.
Read more
🇯🇲 Jamaica
Reggae Boyz Reveal New Sponsors
The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) unveiled the first set of sponsors backing the Reggae Boyz as they pursue qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With Jamaica just eight matches away from World Cup Qualification, hopes are high that Jamaica is on the brink of securing a coveted spot in the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Stewart's Automotive Group, St. Mary’s Snacks, and Supreme Ventures/JustBet were introduced as new campaign partners.
These brands join longstanding sponsor Wray & Nephew as part of the Federation’s Road to 2026 campaign.
Bottom Line: JFF Ambassador Tanya Lee Perkins confirmed more announcements are expected over the next two weeks, with an official campaign launch slated for June.
Read more
🇯🇲 Jamaica
AJ Dybantsa Returns to Jamaica
“I was taught to give back, and what better place than where my mother was born.”
- AJ Dybantsa
Top-ranked high school basketball prospect AJ Dybantsa is visiting Hanover, Jamaica, from May 8–12.
Returning to his mother’s birthplace, AJ aims to give back to local basketball programs through a partnership with the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation.
His initiative with the Marley Foundation includes school visits and equipment donations, inspiring young athletes through the power of sport.
Widely projected as the #1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Dybantsa will attend Brigham Young University (BYU) this fall.
Bottom Line: The Jamaica Basketball Association (JABA) is working closely to coordinate his visit, supporting grassroots development and creating more opportunities for young players.
Check out his announcement
🇩🇴 Dominican Republic
IRONMAN 70.3 Cap Cana Is Here to Stay
With record-breaking Dominican participation and standout organization, the Dominican Republic successfully hosted its second IRONMAN 70.3 Cap Cana, drawing nearly 1,000 athletes from 42 countries.
The event’s success led to a contract extension, locking Cap Cana in as the annual host through 2029.
Bottom Line: IRONMAN 70.3 Cap Cana 2025 marks a major triumph for Dominican sports tourism. Now, an annual IRONMAN race will deliver global exposure and high-spend visitors for years to come.
Read more
🇬🇾 Guyana
Amazon Warriors Are Back to Host Global Super League
The Guyana Amazon Warriors will return for Season 2 of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL), taking place July 10–18 at Providence Stadium.
Fresh off a runner-up finish in the 2024 Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the Amazon Warriors bring pedigree and passion to the GSL stage.
As hosts of this international T20 tournament, the Amazon Warriors will be one of five elite franchises from around the world vying for the GSL title and a share of the $1 million prize fund.
Bottom Line: With ExxonMobil backing, government investment, and ties to India, the GSL is a platform for Guyana to showcase its potential as a global sports destination.
Read more
Until next time ✌🏾
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