David GOMBE
Uganda football supporters’ associations groups have announced that they are to boycott this season’s Uganda Premier League in protest of the newly introduced format.
Fans groups such as the Platinum Football Fans Association Uganda Ltd and the Uganda Premier League Fans Forum have on Wednesday released a joint statement to voice their concerns regarding the new format.
The newly introduced league format is to be played in three rounds replacing the old format of the home-and-away round-robin system that has been in place since the 1960s.
In the three-phase structure: a single-leg first round, a split into two groups depending on the first round performances, and final rounds.
“Despite claims of consultative meetings, this framework appears imposed, with no space for substantive amendment or negotiation,” the statement reads.
The supporters’ associations outlined three major areas of concern. First, they argue that fans, described as the “moral owners of the sport,” were excluded from key decisions shaping competitiveness and finances.
final release pffa reforms 2 MEDIA STATEMENT
Second, they believe the new system threatens sporting integrity, pointing to uneven home and away allocations, possible dead periods, and the resetting of points that could punish consistency. Third, they warn that new revenue-sharing rules and mandated data systems place fresh financial burdens on clubs, several of which, including Vipers SC, SC Villa and NEC FC, have already rejected the format.
The groups are demanding the immediate suspension of the new structure, an inclusive stakeholder forum, and a return to the home-and-away model until consensus is reached.
Their statement warns that pressing ahead without fan and club approval risks damaging the credibility and long-term sustainability of the league.
They have also appealed to government and sports oversight bodies to mediate. If FUFA does not respond, they say they are prepared to continue with boycotts, protests, and appeals to CAF and FIFA as well as courts of law.
The 2025/26 League season officially kicked off last Friday and this Saturday there will be a double header at Mandela National Stadium as Kitara FC takes on defending champions Vipers SC while KCCA FC will lock horns with SC Villa.
