The Uganda Premier League is about to feel very different.
With FUFA rolling out a new three-round structure starting this season, everything from the number of matches to how relegation works is changing.
More games, more drama, more paperwork and depending on where you stand, the changes could be a blessing or a headache.
Here’s a look at the winners and losers.
Winners
Fans
You wanted more football? You’ve got it. Teams will now play at least 34 games and as many as 36 if they land in the relegation playoff.
That’s extra weekends of action, plus the added drama of groups, splits, and high-stakes deciders.
Every stage of the season now has something to fight for, so it’s less likely you’ll see “dead rubber” matches where nothing is at stake.
Big Clubs
The likes of Vipers, KCCA, and Villa should thrive in this setup. They’ve got deeper squads to handle the extra fixtures and more resources to meet FUFA’s demands.
A longer season also gives them more chances to recover from a slow start and still challenge for the title.
FUFA
The federation gets a more professional, controlled league. By enforcing two-year contracts, mandatory use of Catapult tracking vests, and compulsory data reporting, FUFA is tightening its grip on both sporting and financial standards.
The new format also ensures constant competition, which they hope boosts the league’s image.
Losers
Smaller UPL Clubs
The extra fixtures are a financial and physical burden.
Clubs with thin squads will struggle with injuries and fatigue across 34+ matches.
Add the costs of travel, player contracts, and data reporting systems, and survival becomes harder both on and off the pitch.
Players on Short Deals
FUFA’s new registration rule locks out players on one-year contracts unless they turn 31 during the season.
That limits opportunities for youngsters, fringe players, or late bloomers who may only have short deals to prove themselves.
Fans Who Love Simplicity
Not everyone will be thrilled. The old 30-game format was straightforward—play home and away, total up the points.
Now, with three rounds, groups, and a playoff, the league may feel confusing at first. Some fans might find it hard to follow who’s really on top until the final stretch.
The Bottom Line
The new UPL format promises more football and more drama, but also more complexity and more costs.
It’s great news for fans, big clubs, and FUFA’s push for professionalism, but a tough adjustment for smaller sides and players on the fringes.
Whether it makes the league stronger or just harder will depend on how well clubs adapt to the changes.
