The Uganda Rugby Union officially launches the 2025 Rugby Premiership Promotional Playoffs.
This highly anticipated round robin format, set to run from May 24 to June 7, 2025, promises a thrilling showcase of regional talent and fierce battles for a place in Uganda’s top-tier rugby league.
The playoffs will unfold across three weekends and four vibrant rugby hubs; Bushenyi, Kakira, Gulu and Makerere, providing fans in different parts of the country a front-row seat to the action.
Four formidable regional champions Gulu City Falcons, Impis, KIU CROWZ and Kakira Simbas are set to clash in a round-robin format, with the top two teams earning automatic promotion to the 2026 Rugby Premiership.
The Contenders
- Gulu City Falcons, hailing from the Northern Region, enter the fray with momentum after a commanding 31-03 victory over Lira Bulls. They carry the hopes of Northern Uganda, aiming to stamp their authority on the national stage.
- Impis, representing the Central Region, are a familiar name in Uganda’s rugby circles. After suffering relegation in 2024, the Impis are hungry for redemption and a swift return to the Premiership.
- KIU CROWZ, champions of the Western Region, punched their playoff ticket with a dominant 27-00 win over Fort Portal Tyrants. They bring flair and discipline from the west, determined to upset the more seasoned sides.
- Kakira Simbas, from the Eastern Region, secured their spot by triumphing over Njeru in a hard-fought final. With a passionate fan base and dynamic squad, they’re poised to shake things up.
Fixtures to Watch
The action kicks off on Saturday, May 24:
- In Bushenyi, KIU CROWZ face off against Impis at 4:00 PM.
- Simultaneously in Kakira, the Simbas will battle the Falcons.
On May 31, the competition heads north and central:
- Gulu hosts Gulu City Falcons vs KIU CROWZ.
- Makerere sees Impis take on Kakira Simbas.
The final round on June 7 will be decisive:
- Gulu will once again roar as Falcons clash with Impis.
- In Bushenyi, KIU CROWZ square off with Simbas in what could be a playoff decider.
Only two of the four teams will ascend to the 2026 Nile Special Rugby Premiership, replacing Eagles RFC and Elgon Wolves from the 2024-25 season.
