The Rwanda Premier League (RPL) has provided clarity regarding the participation of teams from Sudan that will be playing in Rwanda. Recently, three Sudanese clubs were officially allowed to join the 2025/2026 Rwanda Premier League season. These teams include Al Hilal Omdurman, Al Merrikh, and Al Ahli SC Wad Madani.
The President of the Rwanda Premier League, Mr. Hadji Mudaheranwa, stated that the arrangement would be unique. He mentioned, ‘For us, things will be handled differently. If the Sudanese team finishes first, it will be awarded the championship trophy, and if a Rwandan team finishes close to the top, it will also receive a trophy. This means there will be two trophies awarded.’ He further explained that the Sudanese clubs will bring valuable experience to Rwandan teams and could also help them attract private sponsors.
Meanwhile, the President of FERWAFA, Mr. Shema Ngoga Fabrice, also confirmed during a press briefing that by February 2026, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will start being used in the Rwanda Premier League. This announcement comes after several disciplinary decisions were made, including the suspension of referees who have not performed well in recent matches.
The decision was also influenced by complaints from several clubs that claimed they were not being officiated fairly. The press conference took place on Monday, October 27, 2025, and was attended by the RPL President, Mr. Hadji Mudaheranwa, and the FERWAFA President, Mr. Shema Ngoga Fabrice.
