Dar-es-Salam, (TZ):- CECAFA Kagame Cup defending champions Express FC have been left out of the 2024 tournament which starts on July 09 due to significant budgetary constraints.
The Ugandan Premier League side received a letter from the CECAFA organizing committee regretting to inform them that they would not be included in this year’s tournament in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
“On behalf of the organizing committee of the CECAFA Kagame Cup 2024, I regret to inform you that you’re your team has not been included in this year’s tournament in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania,” the letter signed by CECAFA competitions manager Yusuf Mossi read on Tuesday, July 02.
In the letter, Mr Mossi cited logistical and financial limitations as the reasons for downsizing the tournament from 16 teams to 12.
Despite acknowledging Express FC’s outstanding performance and sportsmanship, CECAFA expressed their inability to accommodate the team’s participation this year.]
“We understand the disappointment this may cause for your team, its players, staff, and supporters. Your club has demonstrated outstanding performance and sportsmanship, and we deeply regret that we are unable to accommodate your participation this year.”
The news comes as a disappointment to the team, its players, staff, and supporters. However, CECAFA has assured Express FC of their value to the tournament and looks forward to their participation in future editions.
“Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. We hope to see your team competing in our tournament again soon,” the letter ended.
Meanwhile, SC Villa, the 2023/24 Uganda Premier League champions, have confirmed their participation in the CECAFA Club Championship.
The tournament will feature 12 teams from various countries, including Tanzania, Kenya, Djibouti, Somalia, Sudan, Rwanda, Zanzibar, and South Sudan.
Confirmed Teams for The CECAFA Club Championship;
- SC Villa – Uganda
- Coastal Union FC – Tanzania
- Singida Black Stars FC – Tanzania
- Gor Mahia FC – Kenya
- Djibouti Telkom FC – Djibouti
- Dekedaha FC – Somalia
- Al Hilal – Sudan
- Al Wadi FC – Sudan
- APR FC – Rwanda
- JKU SC – Zanzibar
- El Merriekh Bentiu – South Sudan
- Red Arrows FC – Zambia
