Kampala, Uganda: The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) and the Uganda Premier League (UPL) Secretariat have reaffirmed their stance to proceed with the new league format for the 2025/26 season, saying they will not revert to the old system despite opposition from Vipers SC.
In a joint statement released on Wednesday, October 7, the UPL Secretariat confirmed that the league will continue as scheduled, even after Vipers refused to participate in a previously arranged double-header fixture.
“The Football Association and UPL Secretariat remain committed to fostering an open and collaborative relationship with Vipers SC and will continue reaching out in good faith to work together toward the shared goals and bright future of Ugandan football,” the statement read.
According to the UPL, all 15 registered clubs endorsed the competition reforms following earlier consultations, with Vipers SC being the only dissenting side.
FUFA further revealed that Vipers have received UGX 110 million in the past three months, including UGX 60 million for winning the 2024/25 StarTimes Uganda Premier League title.
Addressing claims raised by the Kitende-based side regarding access to player data, the Secretariat clarified that FUFA’s player registration database is managed under CAF Club Licensing Regulations, designed to protect clubs and players rather than interfere with their internal operations.
The UPL also dismissed Vipers’ assertion that other league clubs are “small teams,” emphasizing that all 16 clubs are equal shareholders with identical voting rights in the UPL company.
Among the reforms under contention is the introduction of a two-year contract threshold for players, a policy FUFA says was developed after consultations with club executives, sponsors, legal experts, and its own technical department. The reform aims to strengthen player welfare and financial sustainability across the league.
Meanwhile, the league’s official sponsor confirmed the continuation of broadcast coverage for all UPL fixtures, ensuring fans can follow every game despite ongoing disputes.
However, analysts have noted that while the reforms have been widely discussed among club administrators, fan engagement remains minimal, raising concerns over how effectively the changes are being communicated to the wider football community.
FUFA insists the ongoing reforms are intended to professionalize Ugandan football, enhance transparency, and create a competitive, commercially viable league aligned with international standards.
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