Uganda Premier League (UPL) clubs are up in arms with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) over sweeping reforms set to start in the 2025/26 season.
The proposed changes including a three-round league format, strict player registration rules, mandatory data-sharing and a new revenue model have been strongly rejected by top-flight clubs, who are demanding their suspension.
FUFA CEO Edgar Watson announced the reforms after a consultative meeting last week, saying they aim to boost competitiveness, revenue, and data-driven management.
But in a joint letter signed by several club presidents, including SC Villa’s Hajji Ahmed Omar Mandela, Vipers SC’s Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa and KCCA FC‘s CEO Anisha Muhoozi, clubs accused FUFA of ignoring stakeholders and warned the changes “pose an existential threat to Ugandan football.”
Three-Round format sparks outrage
FUFA plans to keep 16 teams but introduce a three-phase league structure. Points earned in the first phase would partially reset in later rounds, splitting teams into separate tiers for the title race and relegation fight.
Clubs argue the format undermines competition and hurts fans:
• Early points could become meaningless, punishing consistent teams.
• Uneven home-and-away fixtures may create unfair advantages.
• Smaller groups could reduce competition and increase match-fixing risks.
“This model is confusing, unfair, and commercially unviable,” read part of the clubs’ statement.
Revenue sharing faces resistance
FUFA’s proposed gate revenue policy has drawn even more backlash:
• In single-header games, home teams keep 85% after deductions.
• In mandatory double-headers, home teams get only 35%, with the rest split among FUFA, UPL, and away teams.
Clubs say this threatens their financial survival, as many already struggle to cover player wages, staff salaries, and matchday costs.
They also cited past frustrations with delayed payments and lack of transparency in the Uganda Cup revenue-sharing system.
“Bigger clubs will end up funding smaller rivals while earning little from away games due to poor marketing and low attendances elsewhere,” the letter states.
Legal and sponsorship concerns
Clubs also flagged potential legal and commercial risks:
• New registration rules could sideline eligible players and violate labor rights.
• FUFA’s demand for club data may breach Uganda’s Data Protection & Privacy Act.
• Sponsors fear the unpredictable format could affect existing contracts and make the league harder to market.
Clubs demand suspension and dialogue
UPL clubs have outlined four key demands:
1. Suspend the reforms for the 2025/26 season.
2. Hold inclusive talks involving clubs, sponsors, broadcasters, and fans.
3. Keep current registration and financial rules until a consensus is reached.
4. Scrap the proposed revenue-sharing model.
Despite their opposition, clubs say they are open to working with FUFA on reforms but only through consultation.
“Football cannot thrive under unilateral decision-making,” said Dr. Mulindwa.
“FUFA must listen to the people who invest in the game, play it, and bring the fans through the gates.”
