Sanyo and Panthers have split up. In a shock announcement after a 12 years long relationship, where the logo was emblazoned across cash strapped Panthers jersey.

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The announcement was made today by Sanyo’s Asian group president chief executive, Bill Crichton, on YouTube broadcast. 

“For the past 12 seasons, we’ve been the major sponsor of Panthers RLFC.”

“Regretfully, due to a takeover of our organisation recently, that sponsorship will now draw to a close. I’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all the Panthers fans that have helped make our brand what it is today.

“I look forward to staying on as an avid fan of the Panthers and watching them as they take their first steps towards their goal of being the greatest sporting organisation in Australia.”

The deal will end next year.

Sanyo held out as sponsor for the league side Panthers despite the dark times, although Penrith did manage to win Grand Final in 2003 against the Roosters.

Sanyo are also dropping sponsorship of the Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Giants AFL team.

Panasonic took over Sanyo in 2009, and will continue to operate as part of the Pana Group.