The Investigatory Chamber of the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Committee has imposed a provisional 90-day suspension on three players of Buhimba United Saints FC, arising from their potential involvement in the manipulation of football results.
The sanctions arise from an investigation into the match played between Lugazi FC and Buhimba United Saints on 08/11/2025, which, according to the information gathered so far by the investigation, indicates that it was manipulated for betting purposes.
Following receipt of information about the alleged manipulation of the match, the Investigatory Chamber commenced an investigation into the match. The evidence obtained so far indicates a potential involvement of the provisionally sanctioned players. Formal investigation proceedings for potential violation of Article 43 of the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Code (Manipulation of Football Matches or Competitions) have been opened.
The conduct of the individuals involved appears to be a violation of the criminal provisions of the National Sports Act, and the matter will be reported to the Uganda Police.
In accordance with Section 78 of the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Code, the Chairperson of the Investigatory Chamber of the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Committee decided to provisionally suspend the players pending the completion of the investigation to protect the integrity of the competition.
The following players have been sanctioned:
Ayebale Moses
Dudu Ramathan
Nkata Fred
Ayebale MosesDudu RamathanNkata Fred
Each of the players has been personally notified of this decision. The suspensions take effect immediately.
FUFA wishes to inform all member clubs that, due to Uganda’s participation in the CHAN 2024 tournament to be hosted in East Africa and the AFCON Morocco 2025 Finals, adjustments have been made to the domestic football calendar in order to ensure proper alignment between national team activities and FUFA competitions.
The AFCON 2025 tournament will take place from December 2025 to January 2026. As a result, the secondary registration window for the 2025/2026 season has been revised.
The registration window will open on 1 February 2026 and close on 2 March 2026.
This adjustment has been made to allow for proper management of club transfers immediately after national team engagements and to ensure minimal disruption to the continuity and integrity of the Uganda Premier League and other affected competitions.
All clubs are therefore advised to plan and complete their transfer business within the revised registration period, ensure that all transfers are uploaded and validated through the TMS and FUFA Connect System within the stipulated timelines, and observe all player registration and licensing requirements as outlined in the regulations.
FUFA appreciates the continued cooperation and commitment of all clubs towards the smooth running of FUFA competitions during this period.
A new wave of motivation is sweeping through the 2025/26 StarTimes Uganda Premier League as the Man of the Match token initiative continues to take root.
The programme which rewards top performers in every league fixture with Shs100,000 is inspiring players to raise their standards compete passionately and value every minute on the pitch. For many players the recognition goes beyond the financial token. It is a symbol of appreciation professionalism and belief in their contribution to the game.
The initiative reflects FUFA continued effort to uplift player morale promote excellence and enhance the competitive spirit of the league. According to FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein the project has already registered success with matchdays covered and winners rewarded promptly through the partnership with World Planet Communications Limited.
‘For the players it is not just about the money. It is about knowing that their efforts are recognised and valued. They are not just playing for the love of the game. They are playing for their families communities and the future’ noted Hussein.
Impact felt on the pitch
URA FC winger Moses Aliro Okabo who shone in the 3–2 victory over UPDF FC on Matchday five expressed gratitude for the recognition.
‘This is a great move by FUFA and UPL. It shows that our efforts are seen and appreciated. As players it motivates us to work even harder and stay consistent in every game’ said Aliro.
His teammate Justine Opiro who scooped the award in the goalless draw against Lugazi FC said the initiative has given players something extra to play for.
‘This kind of recognition gives us purpose and belief. Every player now knows that good performances will not go unnoticed’ Opiro shared.
KCCA FC forward Ivan Ahimbisibwe who earned the accolade in the 2–1 win over SC Villa said the initiative brings a professional touch to the domestic game.
At Entebbe UPPC FC midfielder Isa Bugembe hailed the idea as inclusive and motivating for players from every club. Calvary FC custodian Emmanuel Derrick Were described it as a game-changer that boosts confidence and gives meaning to performance.
Players shining brightest
After five match days three players have already won the Man of the Match award twice each. They are: Steven Munguchi (Entebbe UPPC FC), Ibrahim Mugulusi (BUL FC) and Bedia Djuma Ikamba (Police FC).
Distribution of winners by club
Club
Number of MOTM winners
BUL FC
4
Entebbe UPPC FC
3
Police FC
3
Buhimba United Saints FC
3
KCCA FC
3
NEC FC
3
Kitara FC
2
Express FC
2
URA FC
2
Mbarara City FC
2
Maroons FC
2
Lugazi FC
2
SC Villa
2
Vipers SC
1
UPDF FC
1
Calvary FC
1
Full list of man of the match winners up to matchday five
Denis Ssewagudde (BUL FC), John Wesley Kisaakye (Buhimba United Saints FC), Sharifu Ssengendo (KCCA FC), Sharif Saaka (Lugazi FC), Reagan Matege (Mbarara City FC), Yosia Kisa (Express FC), Isa Bugembe (Entebbe UPPC FC), Ibrahim Mugulusi (BUL FC), Bedia Djuma Ikamba (Police FC), Ronald Media Innocent (NEC FC), Samuel Kayongo Ssekamatte (UPDF FC), Swadik Moro (Buhimba United Saints FC), Ivan Ahimbisibwe (KCCA FC), Rogers Kiwanuka (Maroons FC), Steven Munguchi (Entebbe UPPC FC), Edson Agondeze (Buhimba United Saints FC), Juma Mutebi (Lugazi FC), Ibrahim Thembo (Mbarara City FC), Muhammed Kagawa Ssenoga (Express FC), Dhata Joseph Stephen Lujang (NEC FC), Justine Opiro (URA FC), Emmanuel Derrick Were (Calvary FC), Ibrahim Mugulusi (BUL FC), Sammy Raynald Ssebaduka (KCCA FC), Jimmy Kalema (Kitara FC), Charles Lwanga (SC Villa), Steven Munguchi (Entebbe UPPC FC), Bedia Djuma Ikamba (Police FC), Moses Aliro Okabo (URA FC), Henry Patrick Kaddu (Kitara FC), Walter Ochora (BUL FC), Reagan Mpande (SC Villa), Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC), Alfred Macumu Mudekereza (Vipers SC), Hudson Mbalire (NEC FC)
As the season progresses the FUFA and UPL Man of the Match token continues to transform player motivation reward excellence and add competitive vibrancy to the league. By recognising individual brilliance FUFA and UPL are strengthening the values of hard work passion and professionalism which are the pillars of Uganda’s football development.
The FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, has announced the suspension of the new 2025–2026 Uganda Premier League (UPL) format following extensive consultations with clubs, league sponsors and the Uganda Premier League Board.
The decision was reached and later announced during a press conference held this afternoon, following a series of meetings at FUFA House in Mengo, including a session of the FUFA Executive Committee, which agreed to temporarily suspend Rules 14.4 to 14.12 of the FUFA Competition Rules 2025 for this season.
The FUFA Executive Committee has resolved that the 2025–2026 Uganda Premier League season will revert to a double round-robin format. The matches already played under the initial split league structure will be maintained as part of the revised schedule.
The FUFA President, flanked by his 2nd Vice President Dr. Azah Taibu, FUFA CEO Edgar Watson, Executive Committee members Deo Mutabazi and Issa Magoola, Uganda Premier League Board Chairman Arinaitwe Rugyendo, and Hajji Kawuulu Abdul Mwanje representing the clubs, explained that the suspension will allow all stakeholders more time to understand and appreciate the new league reforms introduced to improve pillar three – professionalisation of club football – as outlined in the FUFA Technical Master Plan launched in 2023.
‘At the start of the season, we held several consultative meetings with the clubs to explore ways of improving the league. One of our immediate objectives as FUFA is to strengthen competitions across the board, and this remains part of our broader vision to implement the Technical Master Plan.’
The FUFA President noted that the reforms were designed to increase competition, reduce the potential for match fixing, and create greater commercial value for the game.
However, he stated that the transition to the new format has presented challenges which require further sensitisation and alignment among all stakeholders.
‘Our expectation was that this would be an exciting new environment for everyone, especially as we build towards AFCON 2027,’ he added.
‘However, we have listened to the clubs, sponsors and fans, and decided to allow more time for explanation and preparation before full implementation.’
‘For this season, we shall play home and away fixtures, with all points accumulated across both rounds, similar to the previous campaign. By the end of this season, we expect to have had enough time to explain the objectives and benefits of the new format so that everyone moves in the same direction.’
He further revealed that FUFA will trial the proposed split league system in one of the lower division competitions, to evaluate its feasibility before any future adoption at the top level.
‘This position has been agreed upon by all clubs and endorsed by the FUFA Executive Committee. Our focus now is to sustain the energy around the league and push fans back to the stadiums because football is about the fans. We have listened to our clubs, sponsors and the public, and we are confident that together we shall achieve our goals.’
The FUFA President concluded by commending all stakeholders for their continued support and reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to improving football competitions at all levels.
FUFA has distributed Zakayo Category 1 balls to all the 16 Uganda Premier League clubs as part of its support for competition reforms.
Each club received 30 Zakayo balls during a function held today at the FUFA headquarters in Mengo.
The balls, valued at 50 million Uganda shillings, were handed over by Hon. Florence Nakiwala, the FUFA 3rd Vice President and Competition Executive Supervisor. Zakayo balls are the official match balls used in FUFA Competitions.
The 2025/26 StarTimes Uganda Premier League season kicked off on Friday 26th September with Six fixtures, each producing standout individual performances that earned players the prestigious Man of the Match honour.
At the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru, BUL FC’s Denis Ssewagudde was outstanding in a goalless draw against URA FC. His solid display earned him the first Man of the Match award of the season.
Bugonga Fisheries Ground in Entebbe witnessed Buhimba United Saints FC claim a 1–0 away victory over Entebbe UPPC FC. John Wesley Kisaakye was instrumental in guiding his side to a winning start, making him the deserved Man of the Match.
In Hoima City, Kitara FC and KCCA FC played out a 1–1 draw at the Royals Park. It was KCCA’s Ssengendo Sharif who caught the eye with an energetic performance that secured him the Man of the Match recognition.
Lugazi FC registered the biggest win of the day with a 3–1 triumph over Calvary FC at Lugazi Stadium. Sharif Saaka’s commanding presence and contribution to the victory saw him named Man of the Match.
Express FC saw off UPDF FC at the Hamz Stadium in a match that ended 1-0 and Yosia Kisa from the home team was named man of the match.
The final fixture at Kiira Road Police Arena ended 1–1 between Police FC and Mbarara City FC. Reagan Matega proved decisive for the visitors, walking away with the Man of the Match accolade.
Matchday One Man of the Match Winners
Denis Ssewagudde (BUL FC)
John Wesley Kisaakye (Buhimba United Saints FC)
Ssengendo Sharif (KCCA FC)
Sharif Saaka (Lugazi FC)
Reagan Matega (Mbarara City FC)
Yosia Kisa (Express FC)
Man of the Match Bonuses this Season
Round 1:100,000 UGX for the winner Round 2: 200,000 UGX for the winner Round 3: 500,000 UGX for the winner Total Budget: 74 million Uganda shillings
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has officially released the list of Technical Officers for the 2025/26 StarTimes Uganda Premier League season. The introduction of Technical Officers is part of FUFA’s ongoing initiative to strengthen match analysis and reporting for the Technical Study Group while providing former players with a continued role in the development of Ugandan football.
Technical Officers will contribute to match-day reporting and will form part of the Match Technical Panel responsible for selecting the Man of the Match in every league fixture. Their expertise is expected to enhance the credibility and technical quality of match evaluations.
The Technical Officers appointed by FUFA for the 2025/26 season are:
FUFA has partnered with World Planet Communications Ltd to handle payments for Man of the Match and locker room bonuses in the 2025/26 StarTimes Uganda Premier League season. This move aims to boost player performance and competitiveness.
Here are the key details;
Man of the Match Bonuses
Round 1:100,000 UGX for the winner Round 2: 200,000 UGX for the winner Round 3: 500,000 UGX for the winner Total Budget: 74 million Uganda shillings
Locker Room Bonuses
Round 2: 80,000 UGX per player Round 3:150,000 UGX per player Total Budget: 444 million Uganda shillings
Payment Process
World Planet Communications Ltd will deposit the money on players’ accounts within 24 hours or less after each match. Clubs are required to submit MTN Mobile Money numbers for licensed players and officials eligible for bonuses
FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi noted that; ‘This partnership and the bonus structure are part of FUFA’s broader efforts to professionalise Ugandan football’
CEO of World Planet Communications Dr. David Nsiyona said that; ‘On behalf of World Planet Communications, I as the Director, Dr David Nsiona, I take this opportunity to let our viewers, our listeners, get to know about the contractual obligation that has been entered between World Planet Communications and FUFA.’
‘World Planet Communications we distribute as of MTN and essentially we have entered into an agreement and an understanding with FUFA so that we may use the technology available for us to be able to pay the man of the match and the local room bonuses to the various teams as shall be instructed by FUFA,’ he added.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has reiterated its commitment to standardising football competitions by enforcing strict guidelines on the use of the Official FUFA Ball. This measure is intended to safeguard the integrity of matches and ensure consistency across all FUFA Organised Competitions (FOC) and FUFA Authorised Competitions (FAC).
According to Rule 32 of the FUFA Competitions Rules, only the Official FUFA Ball is permitted for use on match days. No referee is allowed to officiate a FOC or FAC fixture where an unauthorised ball is in play, unless the Tournament Organising Committee (TOC) provides written approval from FUFA.
Any breach of this regulation by referees, organising committees, or host teams will attract disciplinary action in line with the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Code.
In addition, FUFA has directed that for the Men’s First Division League, clubs must always ensure that a minimum of fifteen balls are available with the ball crew to maximise playing time and maintain the pace of matches.
Through these measures, FUFA continues to emphasise professionalism, order, and fairness in all its competitions.
FUFA Competitions Rules
Rule 32: Official Ball 1) There shall be a type and make of ball branded as the Official FUFA Ball.
2) Unless authorised by FUFA in writing, only the Official FUFA Ball shall be used as the Match Day Ball for all FOC and FAC matches.
3) No FUFA Referee shall officiate a FOC or FAC match where any other ball other than the Official FUFA Ball is the one being played unless TOC provides the written exception from FUFA.
4) The TOC or any person or Referee or Home Team who violates provisions 32(2) and 32(3) shall be sanctioned in accordance with the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Code.
5) For the 1st Division League (Men) there shall at all-time be a minimum of 15 balls available with the ball crew for playing in order to maximise the playing time. Terms: FAC- FUFA Authorised Competition TOC-Tournament Organising Committee FOC -FUFA Organised Competition
The FUFA Competitions Department has released the list of match officials for Matchday 1 of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League 2025/26 season, which begins on Friday 26 September 2025.
The season opener will see six matches across the country, with experienced and upcoming referees entrusted with ensuring fair play. Below are the full appointments:
Venue: The Royals Park – Hoima | Kick-off: 4:00 pm (TV Game)
Referee: Okello Dick
Assistant Referee 1: Okudra Emmanuel
Assistant Referee 2: Katerega Ashraf
Fourth Official: Atiku Rahman
Referee Assessor: Batte Denis
Technical Officer: Alinda Herbert Billy
General Coordinator: Gramdks Robert
Lugazi FC vs Calvary FC
Venue: Lugazi FC Stadium | Kick-off: 4:00 pm
Referee: Duula Joshua
Assistant Referee 1: Musisi Brianson
Assistant Referee 2: Mafumu Mustafa
Fourth Official: Samba Hassan
Referee Assessor: Mashood Ssali
Technical Officer: Diego Hamis Kizza
General Coordinator: Kabaikaramu Paul
FUFA Competitions Rules
Article 30: Referees’ Kits 1) There shall be a type and make of the Referees Kit branded as the Official FUFA Referees Kit. 2) Unless authorised by FUFA in writing, only the Official FUFA Referees Kit shall be used as for all FOC and FAC matches. 3) No FUFA Referee shall officiate a FOC or FAC match donning another kit other than the official Referees kit unless the TOC provides the written exception from FUFA. 4) The TOC or any person or Referee or Home Team who violates provisions 30(2) and 30(3) shall be sanctioned in accordance with the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Code.
FUFA has confirmed further changes to the Uganda Premier League reforms following extended consultations and engagement on proposals submitted by clubs.
In a communication to clubs signed by the FUFA Chief Executive Officer Edgar Watson, the federation has shared updates related to the ongoing reforms and the corresponding benefits for Uganda Premier League (UPL) clubs.
Watson thanked various stakeholders and clubs for their committed support and involvement towards the process.
‘We thank you for your continued cooperation and commitment to the development of football in Uganda. Together, we can continue to grow the Uganda Premier League into a strong, competitive, and commercially viable product under the new format’ noted Watson.
Here are the details of the Communication in in Circular 1204 issued on Monday 15th September 2025.
Insurance of the Players
Effective 1st October 2025, FUFA has procured medical insurance from Case MedInsurance Ltd and now referred to as FUFA medical insurance scheme. Consequently, each UPL club is required to submit the details of the 25 players to be covered by the insurance
Prize Money
Prize money for the 2024/25 season has now been fully paid and for 2025/26 season as part of the reforms has been increased to 532m UGX to be distributed at the end of the season as follows:
Pos
Round-1
Pos
Round-2&3
1
20,000,000
1
80,000,000
2
18,000,000
2
44,000,000
3
16,000,000
3
40,000,000
4
14,000,000
4
36,000,000
5
12,000,000
5
32,000,000
6
10,000,000
6
30,000,000
7
8,000,000
7
26,000,000
8
6,000,000
8
24,000,000
9
5,000,000
9
22,000,000
10
4,500,000
10
18,500,000
11
4,000,000
11
17,000,000
12
3,500,000
12
13,500,000
13
3,000,000
13
10,000,000
14
2,500,000
14
6,500,000
15
1,500,000
15
2,500,000
16
1,000,000
16
1,000,000
Man of the Match
As part of the reforms, there shall be a Man of the match chosen by a panel of technocrats for each of the 268 matches to be played for the 2025/26 season as follows:
Round
Matches
Award (UGX)
Round-1
120
100,000
Round-2
112
200,000
Round-3
36
500,000
Locker Room Bonuses
There shall be winning bonus for each of the 30 persons submitted as the matchday list before the match for the team that wins each of Round-2 and Round-3 matches distributed as follows:
Round
Matches
Persons
Award (UGX)
Round-2
112
30
80,000
Round-3
36
30
150,000
To facilitate the timely payment of locker room bonuses, each club is required to submit the MTN Mobile Money numbers for ALL the licenced players and officials eligible for this bonus (players and officials).
Club Financial Support
As part of FUFA’s commitment to supporting club operations and enhancing the competitiveness of the league, each UPL club will receive a financial support of UGX 80 million for the 2025/6 Season, to be disbursed as follows:
Sno.
Schedule
Amount (UGX)
1
Beginning of Round-1
25,000,000
2
Beginning of Round-2
25,000,000
3
Beginning of Round-3
30,000,000
Fixtures
In response to feedback from the clubs, FUFA has asked the UPL to revise the initial fixtures generated through a draw in order to ensure fairness. A manually prepared fixture schedule for Round-1 has now been adopted and the UPL is required to issue a new fixture schedule
Format
Considering matters raised by some clubs and the majority opinion of the clubs, FUFA has now adopted the modified format as follows:
Round-1:
All the 16 clubs will play against each other in a one-leg competition and at the end of the 120 matches (15 matches per club), a table standing shall be drawn positioning clubs from position 1 to16
Round-2
Clubs that finish in the top 8 (1st-8th) positions of Round-1 shall compose Group-1 while those that finish in the bottom 8 (9th-16th) positions of Round-1 shall compose Group-2
The 8 clubs of Group-1 will play against each other in a two-leg competition (Home and Away basis) and at the end of the 56 matches (14 matches per club), a table standing shall be drawn positioning clubs from position 1st to 8th
The 8 clubs of Group-2 will play against each other in a two-leg competition (Home and Away basis) and at the end of the 56 matches (14 matches per club), a table standing shall be drawn positioning clubs from position 9th to 16th
Round-3
Clubs that finish:
a) in the top 6 (1st-6th) positions of Group-1 at the end of Round-2 shall compose Group-3. This group shall be composed of 6 clubs that will play against each other in a one-leg competition for 15 matches (5 matches per club)
b) in positions 7th-8th of Group-1 and positions 9th -10th of Group-2 at the end of Round-2 shall compose Group-4. This group shall be composed of 4 clubs that will play against each other in a one-leg competition for 6 matches (3 matches per club)
c) in the bottom 6 (11th-16th) positions of Group-2 at the end of Round-2 shall compose Group-5. This group shall be composed of 6 clubs that will play against each other in a one-leg competition for 15 matches (5 matches per club)
For all the one-leg matches of Round-3, the teams that hosted in the Round-1 shall play away and vice versa in the corresponding fixtures
Final Table Standing
Points and Goals from Round-1 shall not be considered for the final table standings. The Final Table Standing shall be drawn from points and goals accumulated in Round-2 and Round-3.
Champions and Relegation
The club that is ranked in 1st Position in the Final Table Standing shall be declared the 1st Division Champions for the UPL 2025/26 Season
The club that is ranked in 1st to 14th Position in the Final Table Standing shall be eligible for club licensing for the 2026/27 1st Division League
The club that is ranked in 15th and 16th Position in the Final Table Standing shall be relegated and shall be eligible for club licensing for the 2026/27 2nd Division League
Top Scorer
Goals scored in all Rounds (Round-1, Round-2, Round-3) shall be considered while determining the Top Scorer
Cautions and Send-Offs
Cautions that have not yet accumulated to cause suspension shall not be carried from one Round to the other.
Cautions causing suspension shall be served as per the FUFA Competitions Rules in any round.
Send-offs shall be served as and when they are due irrespective of the Rounds.
The FUFA Competitions Rules shall provide further details on matters not highlighted in this Circular.
Following the various consultative meetings more specifically between FUFA and the 1st Division clubs held at Serena Hotel – Kampala on 2nd September 2025 and 9th September 2025; and also, the response by the individual clubs to the FUFA letter (Ref: FUFA/COMPETITION-CLUBS/2/09/25): The FUFA Executive Committee has taken the decisions herein to refine the content of FUFA circular No. 1202. (Therefore, this circular No. 1203 hereby replaces circular No. 1202 and all its contained decisions)
Consequently, this is to inform all stakeholders of the FUFA Executive Committee decision to reform FUFA Competitions.
The following reforms for the 1st Division League are effective for the 2025/6 season:
A. LEAGUE FORMAT
1. The 1st Division League shall comprise of a maximum of 16 Teams
2. The 1st Division League shall be played over a season in three (3) rounds
Round-1
3. All the teams shall play a one-leg league format to determine the ranking of positions. There shall be a draw conducted to determine which teams play against the others at home and away in Round-1
4. The top 8 ranked teams at the end of Round-1 shall qualify for Group 1 at Round-2
5. The bottom teams at the end of Round-1 shall qualify for Group 2 at Round-2
Round-2
6. Group-1 and Group-2 teams shall play a full league format (within their respective Group) on the basis of home and away
7. The top 6 ranked teams of Group-1 shall qualify for Round-3 to play in Group-3
8. The 7th and 8th teams of Group-1 and the 1st and 2nd teams of Group-2 shall qualify for Round-3 to play in Group-4
9. The bottom 6 ranked teams of Group-2 shall qualify for Round-3 to play in Group-5
Round-3
10. All the teams in Round-3 shall play a one-leg league format to determine the ranking of positions. For each pair of matches, the team that played home in Round-1 shall now play away while the team that played away in Round-1 shall now play home for parity
Season Table Standing
11. There will be points and goals accumulation for both the Round-2 and Round-3 to determine the season table standings.
12. The season ranking of teams shall be as follows:
Teams of Group-3 that take positions 1-6 after consideration of paragraph 11 above shall take positions 1-6 of the competition for the season
Teams of Group-4 that take positions 1-4 after consideration of paragraph 11 above shall take positions 7-10 of the competition for the season
Teams of Group-5 that take positions 1-6 after consideration of paragraph 11 above shall take positions 11-16 of the competition for the season
Champions and Relegation
13. The team ranked in position 1 in season ranking of the teams as provided for in paragraph 12 above shall be declared the champions for the season
14. The 3 teams ranked in positions 11, 12 and 13 at the end of season shall remain sportingly eligible to be licensed for the 2026/7 Season for the 1st Division League
15. The team ranked in position 14 at the end of the season shall play on a home and away basis against the 3rd ranked team from the 2025/6 2nd Division League. The team that wins this fixture over the two (2) legs shall sportingly be eligible to be licensed for the 2026/7 Season for the 1st Division League while the team that loses this fixture over the two (2) legs shall sportingly be eligible to be licensed for the 2026/7 Season for the 2nd Division League
16. The teams ranked in positions 15 and 16 at the end of the season shall sportingly be eligible to be licensed for the 2026/7 Season for the 2nd Division League
B. PLAYERS REGISTRATION FOR THE 1ST DIVISION LEAGUE
17. Only players whose contracts with their respective clubs have two (2) or more years remaining shall be eligible to be licensed for the 2025/6 1st Division League. The exception to this provision shall only be for the player: –
whose 31st and above birthday shall happen during the upcoming season
who is already under running contract, signed earlier than 30th June 2024, that shall serve the remaining part of his contract.
18. All the other provisions of player registration shall remain in force until changed
C. DATA
19. It is obligatory that each club in the 1st division to share sporting and business data after every specified period. Corrective Measures shall be applied for failure to comply with this provision
20. FUFA may develop web-based applications to collect this data
Sporting Data
21. At the end of each 1st division league match, each club shall be required to submit FORM (F601) that shall specify the sporting data of the match as recorded by the club. This submission shall not be more than 48 hours after the match
22. Each club playing in the 1st division league shall be required to use the Catapult Technology during the match. The referee shall require that the vests are utilised. In event of failure, the referee will report on the matter.
Business Data
23. At the end of each 1st division league match, each club shall be required to submit FORM (F605) that shall specify the business data of the match as recorded by the club. The business data among others shall include the Match Day Attendances, Revenues Generated from Match Day Attendances. This submission shall not be more than 48 hours after the match
D. FIXTURES
24. 1st Division League matches shall be played as single-header or double header fixtures
25. Double Header Fixture shall mean when matches of 2 UPL Clubs are hosted in one venue with 2-3 hours between the kick-off times of both matches
26. With approval by the home clubs, the UPL will determine which matches may be played as Double-Headers
27. The UPL may change the venue of a match in order to organise a Double-Header
28. UPL has exclusive decisions on which fixtures shall be single-headers
28. Upon consent of home clubs, the UPL may within a period of 14 days combine single-header fixtures into Double Header Fixtures and vice versa
E. FINANCIAL REGULATIONS
Prize Monies
30. FUFA shall provide 532m UGX as Prize Monies for the 1st Division League shared as follows:
Round-1
Round-2 &3
1
38,000,000
62,000,000
2
26,000,000
36,000,000
3
24,000,000
32,000,000
4
22,000,000
28,000,000
5
20,000,000
24,000,000
6
18,000,000
22,000,000
7
16,000,000
18,000,000
8
15,000,000
15,000,000
9
14,000,000
13,000,000
10
13,000,000
10,000,000
11
12,000,000
9,000,000
12
10,000,000
7,000,000
13
8,000,000
5,000,000
14
6,000,000
3,000,000
15
4,000,000
0
16
2,000,000
0
31. The 3,000,000 UGX indicated for position 14, shall be for the club that wins the play-off for relegation and promotion referenced in paragraph 15 of this circular
Gate Collections
32. Gross takings of the match shall be declared. Any failure to comply or falsification of the information submitted shall cause application of corrective measures by the FUFA Judicial Commission
33. There shall be a fixed amount to be spent as operations costs for every UPL match determined as follows:
For the single header fixtures, the home club shall apply to UPL for amount to be considered for the operations costs. UPL will confirm or amend the proposed amount and will communicate the final amount to be considered for operations costs
For the double header fixtures, UPL shall determine and issue the amount to be considered for the operations costs.
34. When the mandatory taxes and operations costs have been deducted, the remaining amount shall be referred to as the Sharable Revenue
35. For single header fixtures, the shareable revenues shall be as follows:
Home Team
90%
UPL
5%
FUFA
5%
100%
36. For double header fixtures:
There shall be a categorisation of teams in terms of fans following in accordance with the fans’ data of the previous season. For the 2025/6 Season, the categorisation shall be as follows:
Cat-1
Cat-2
Cat-3
Vipers SC
BUL FC
Police
KCCA FC
Calvary
URA
SC Villa
Mbarara City
UPDF
Kitara FC
Buhimba Saints
Maroons
Express FC
Lugazi FC
UPPC
NEC
b. The shareable revenue shall be as follows:
Home Team-1
A%
Home Team-2
B%
Away Team-1
5%
Away Team-2
5%
UPL
5%
FUFA
5%
100%
c. The percentage shares by the home teams (A and B) shall be as follows:
Home-1
Cat-1 (A)
40%
Home-2
Cat-1 (B)
40%
Home-1
Cat-1 (A)
48%
Home-2
Cat-2 (B)
32%
Home-1
Cat-1 (A)
56%
Home-2
Cat-3 (B)
24%
Home-1
Cat-2 (A)
40%
Home-2
Cat-2 (B)
40%
Home-1
Cat-2 (A)
48%
Home-2
Cat-3 (B)
32%
Home-1
Cat-3 (A)
40%
Home-2
Cat-3 (B)
40%
37. The share of FUFA and UPL of the Gate Collections shall be deducted effective 2025/6 season, as provided for in this circular, but shall be donated back to the respective clubs for only the season 2025/6. For avoidance doubt, the funds collected from each club shall be donated back to the respective club in the same amount
38. The breakdown of the 3.4bn UGX fund shall be as follows:
Prize Money
532,000,000
Media and Marketing
240,000,000
Locker Room Bonuses (R2 & R3)
30
148
100,000
444,000,000
Staffing UPL
12
20,000,000
240,000,000
Cash grant to the 16 clubs
16
80,000,000
1,280,000,000
Players’ Insurance (25 players per Club)
25
16
1,200,000
480,000,000
Man of the Match (R2 & R3)
148
500,000
74,000,000
Various Expenses
110,000,000
TOTAL
3,400,000,000
39. The content of this circular shall be included in the next issue of the FUFA Competitions Rules.
Following a meeting between the FUFA Executive, UPL clubs, and the UPL Board, 11 clubs that attended had fruitful discussions on Tuesday, 26th August 2025 at FUFA House in Mengo.
All 11 clubs agreed it was great to see the federation seek more resources from various sources to improve club football but also made a request to increase the funding.
FUFA agreed to the request and approved the significant increment in funding from 2.5 billion UGX to 3.4 billion UGX annually to support changes through the FUFA Club Development Reforms programme. This funding would cover:
Insurance of players
Prize money
Recruitment of more staff at the UPL Secretariat
Media and marketing of UPL
Locker room bonus (for every win in the league)
Cash support for clubs
The 11 clubs that attended are: BUL FC, URA FC, Maroons FC, Express FC, UPDF FC, Police FC, Mbarara City FC, Lugazi FC, Entebbe UPPC FC, Calvary FC and Buhimba United Saints FC
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has approved key initiatives for the next four years under its Competitions Development Programme (FCDP) aimed at boosting football competitions to address the sporting and economic objectives of football in Uganda.
The FUFA Executive Committee has approved the following: 1) to create and implement the FUFA Competitions Development Programme (FCDP) 2) to create a fund called “FUFA Goal” that will provide resources to finance the FCDP 3) 2.5bn UGX shall be injected in the UPL per season to grow our flagship Competition to self-sustaining levels in at least 5 years 4) More resources be found for the FUFA GOAL to finance other FUFA Competitions and the reforms thereat
According to FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein, ‘During the FUFA Elective Assembly in Hoima in July of this year, it was approved that FUFA looks at avenues of how to reinstall a format for club football competitions systems to address the sporting and economic objectives. All these would enhance the quality of the football leagues.’
The 1st Division League (StarTimes Uganda Premier League) that consists of sixteen teams shall be played over three rounds. In Round One, all clubs will compete in a one-leg league format with home and away matches determined by a draw. At the conclusion of this round, the top eight ranked sides will qualify for Group 1, while the bottom eight will form Group 2 in Round 2. Both groups will then play on a full home and away basis. From Group 1, the top six teams will progress to Group 3 in Round 3, while the bottom two will complete the season in positions seven and eight. From Group 2, the bottom six will proceed to Group 4 in Round 3, while the top two will end the campaign in positions nine and ten.
In Round 3, the teams in Groups 3 and 4 will play a one-leg league format, with fixtures reversed against Round 1 to ensure parity. The final rankings in Group 3 will determine positions one to six, with the top team declared league champions. The rankings in Group 4 will determine positions 11 downwards. At the end of the season, teams finishing in positions 11 to 13 will retain eligibility for the following campaign, while the team finishing 14th will contest a two-legged play-off against the 3rd placed team in the 2nd Division League. The winner of this fixture will qualify for the next 1st Division season, while the loser will be placed in the 2nd Division. The sides finishing 15th and 16th will be relegated directly.
New player registration rules will also apply, with only footballers holding contracts of at least two years’ duration eligible for licensing, save for those whose thirty-first birthday falls during the season. All other existing regulations remain in place.
In addition, each club will be obliged to submit both sporting and business data after every fixture. Sporting data, to be submitted within 48 hours on Form F601. The information recorded using Catapult Technology too. While business data, submitted on Form F605, must cover attendances and revenues. Referees will enforce the use of monitoring technology. Failure to comply will attract corrective measures.
Fixtures shall be played as either single-header or double-header events. Double-headers will consist of two league matches staged at the same venue with two to three hours between kick-off times. The Uganda Premier League retains authority to determine which matches are staged as single or double-headers, and retains the power to amend fixtures within fourteen days.
Financially, FUFA will provide five hundred million Uganda shillings as prize monies, to be distributed across all rounds and positions, with a further two million shillings allocated to the winner of the relegation and promotion play-off. Gate collections will be regulated, with all gross takings declared and approved operations costs deducted before revenues are shared. For single-header fixtures, the home team will retain the majority share, while UPL, FUFA and the match winner each receive a small percentage. For double-header fixtures, revenues will be shared across both home and away teams, with FUFA and UPL also receiving their allocations. In matches ending in a draw, the percentage otherwise allocated to the winner will revert to the home team.
These reforms are designed to improve the structure and competitiveness of the league, enhance transparency in club operations, and ensure sustainable sporting and business practices for the future of Ugandan football.
FUFA has partnered with Case MedInsurance for a medical insurance cover worth 750M for the 2025/2026 season. This cover benefits 16 clubs in the Uganda Premier League and 12 clubs in the FUFA Women Super League. Each club submits a list of 25 players. The scheme starts on 1st September, 2025.
The cover caters for 400 players in the Uganda Premier League and 300 players in the FUFA Women Super League, making a total of 700 players.
Some players who have benefited from FUFA’s medical insurance cover include Shadia Nankya, former UCU Lady Cardinals player now in the US with Dallas Trinity, Ronald Ssekiganda, formerly with SC Villa and now at APR FC in Rwanda, Josephat Ayebare, a Ndejje University FC defender who appreciated support from FUFA during injury recovery after suffering a horrific injury during the FUFA Drum match playing for Kigezi Province, Shakirah Nyinagahirwa of Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Ronah Nantege, a She Corporate FC forward, and Grace Nassongo of She Corporate FC.
The objectives of FUFA’s medical insurance scheme are to prioritize player health, putting players’ health at the forefront, recognizing their key contribution to national teams, support recovery from injuries to help players recover from injuries and illnesses preventing career-threatening outcomes, potentially expand coverage to more leagues in the future.
Full list of players who were managed under FUFA Medical Insurance Scheme after picking up injuries and have returned to play football.
Women: Nakigozi Elizabeth-Kampala Queens FC, Komuntale Sumaya – Kampala Queens FC, Nandunga Bbira – Olila High School WFC, Nyinagahirwa Shakirah – Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Nankya Shadia – UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Muwugumya Harriet- UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Namiro Neolina-She Corporate, Nabiiri Scovia, Nabatanzi Hanifah, Auki Angel Kigongo – Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC, Nantongo Cissy – She Corporate FC, Nandere Everline- Lady Doves FC, Nakasato Rebecca – Makerere university WFC, Namusoke Cathy, Nakuba Harriet -Kampala Queens FC, Olga Butiru Lukia, Akiror Patricia – Kampala Queens FC.
Male players: Ssekiganda Ronald – SC Villa, Ibrahim Magandazi – Kitara FC, Anthony Mayanja (Bul FC), Rwothomio Innocent (BUL FC), Kalyowa Emmanuel-BUL FC, Douglas Muganga-BUL FC, Kirya Ambrose, BUL FC, Opio Belmos, Okwalinga Mathias, Angu James, Ssemayange Simon Kato, Masembe Edward- SC Villa, Lukwago David.
Note: Clubs quoted as per FUFA system when the insurance cover was used by each player.
In line with the Club Licensing Regulations, all Uganda Premier League (UPL) clubs are required to have head coaches holding a minimum CAF A licence starting from the 2025/26 season. This move, enforced by FUFA, is designed to raise coaching standards, improve the quality of play, and align the league with the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) professional requirements.
FUFA’s Club Licensing Committee confirmed that all 16 clubs have complied by submitting the names and qualifications of their head coaches ahead of the new campaign. The 2025/26 season will therefore kick off with every team led by a technically qualified and certified coach.
Belgian tactician Ivan Jacky Minnaert, who holds a UEFA Pro Licence, will lead Vipers SC, while SC Villa will be under the guidance of Serbian coach Kovacevic Zeljko, a holder of a UEFA A Licence. KCCA FC have appointed Jackson Magera Kaddu and Brian Ssenyondo, both with CAF A Licences, to steer their technical bench.
NEC FC will be coached by Hussein Mbalangu (CAF A), BUL FC by Bogere Kikomeko Abbey (CAF A), and URA FC by Alex Isabirye Musongola (CAF A). Kitara FC will be in the hands of Lutalo George William (CAF A), while Maroons FC will look to Abdallah Loi Umar (CAF A) for leadership.
Express FC have entrusted Kaddu Badru Mukasa (CAF A) with the role, UPDF FC have appointed Gitta Alex (CAF A), and Police FC have Lule Mathias (CAF A). Mbarara City FC will be led by Mugerwa Simon Peter (CAF A), while Lugazi FC will have Mugerwa Francis (CAF A) in charge.
Calvary FC have appointed Kintu Jimmy Mwera (CAF A), Entebbe UPPC FC have Abdallah Mubiru (CAF A), and Buhimba United Saints FC will be coached by Anjelo Lonyesi (CAF A).
The introduction of a uniform coaching standard is also expected to inspire more local coaches to pursue advanced qualifications, bridging the gap between Ugandan and international football coaching standards.
Vipers Sports Club, Uganda’s champions in the 2024/25 season, have been pitted against African Stars from Namibia in the preliminary round of the CAF Champions League. Both legs are set to be played between September 19-21, 2025, with Vipers being the first visitors, and the second leg will be played between September 26-28, 2025, with Vipers being the hosts.
The winner between Vipers SC and African Stars on aggregate will progress to the next round and will face the winner between Power Dynamos of Zambia or ASEC Mimosas of Ivory Coast. The draws were held in Dar es salaam Tanzania on August 9, 2025 in Azam media studios.
Vipers are the double champions of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and Stanbic Uganda Cup, having finished with 69 points from 30 league games and beating KCCA FC 2-0 in the Stanbic Uganda Cup to clinch the title for the 4th time.
Having won 2 domestic titles, Vipers SC gave room to NEC FC, who finished second in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League with 67 points, denying KCCA FC a chance to participate in the CAF Confederation Cup.
NEC FC, representing Uganda in the CAF Confederation Cup and making their maiden continental appearance, has been pitted against Kenya’s Nairobi United, who won the 2024/25 FKF Cup. The games are scheduled for September 19-21, 2025, with NEC FC hosting the first leg at home, and the second leg will be played in Nairobi, Kenya, between September 26-28, 2025.
If NEC FC wins the two-legged tie, they’ll face either Sudan’s Al Ahly Madani or Tunisia’s Étoile Sportive du Sahel in the Second Preliminary Round. NEC FC finished the league second with 67 points, two points below champions Vipers SC, having played 30 matches, winning 20, drawing 7, and losing 3.
