THE NEW UGANDA PREMIER LEAGUE FORMAT 2025/26

The new format for the Uganda Premier League (UPL), set to begin in the 2025/26 season, introduces significant changes aimed at enhancing the competition's competitiveness and professionalism.

Here's a detailed overview of the new league structure:

Key Features of the New Uganda Premier League Format

1. Number of Teams:

   • The league will continue to consist of 16 teams, maintaining the same number as the previous season.

2. Competition Structure:

   The league will be played over three rounds:
   • Round One: All teams will compete in a single-leg format, where each club will play every other team once. Matches will be held in a home-and-away format determined by a draw.
   • Round Two: The top eight teams from Round One will qualify for a group stage, featuring two groups. This will involve a double round-robin format, where each team plays the others in their group twice (home and away).
   • Round Three: The top teams from each group will advance to the playoffs, culminating in a final to determine the league champion.

3. Promotion and Relegation:

   • The new format will also incorporate a promotion and relegation playoff system, ensuring that the competition remains dynamic and allows for movement between the top tier and lower divisions.

4. Implementation Goals:

   • The reforms aim to align Ugandan football with modern standards and improve overall transparency and professionalism in the league.

5. Timeline:

   • The new season is scheduled to begin on September 26, 2025, and will conclude on February 14, 2026.

6. Defending Champions:

   • Vipers SC is the defending champion, having won the 2024/25 season.

Conclusion

The changes introduced by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) come after extensive consultations with UPL clubs, aiming to reshape the Ugandan football landscape and enhance the viewing experience for fans.