Sudan’s major football clubs to join Rwanda Premier League due to ongoing conflict

Sudanese giants Al Hilal as they pose for a photo. (Kenya Police)

By Erick Kariuki
Saturday, October 25, 2025

In a statement, FERWAFA said the move underscores its dedication to promoting unity and regional integration through sport.

Three of Sudan’s biggest football clubs, Al Hilal SC, Al Merrick Hanna SC, and Al Ahli Wad Madani, have officially been approved to participate in the 2025–2026 Rwanda Premier League Championship, the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) announced.

The historic decision comes as the Sudanese Premier League remains suspended due to the civil conflict that has ravaged the country since April 2023, displacing millions and leaving major cities, including Khartoum, in ruins.

More To Read

In a statement, FERWAFA said the move underscores its dedication to promoting unity and regional integration through sport.

“This decision reflects FERWAFA’s continued commitment to promoting regional integration, competitiveness, and the global growth of football through stronger international collaboration,” the federation said in a press release.

The inclusion of the Sudanese clubs in Rwanda’s top division will allow them to remain active and sustain their footballing structures as their home country struggles to restore stability.

The arrangement is pending final approval from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), with fixtures and scheduling details expected to be released soon.

Last season, Al Hilal and Al Merrikh, who between them have won all but four Sudanese league titles since 1965, played their domestic campaign in Mauritania, where they were hosted to maintain their competitive edge. This year, the clubs requested to relocate closer to home, with Rwanda emerging as a stable and supportive base.

The decision follows a recent mini-tournament in Ad-Damer and Atbara, where the three clubs dominated, with Al Hilal and Al Merrikh again proving their superiority, and Al Ahli Wad Madani finishing third.

Despite the challenges, Sudanese clubs have continued to shine on the continental stage. Al Hilal recently advanced to the group stage of the CAF Champions League after a 4-1 aggregate win over Kenya Police FC, hosting their ‘home’ leg in Benghazi, Libya.

FERWAFA emphasised that the collaboration goes beyond competition; it is a show of solidarity with the Sudanese football community during one of its most difficult periods.

“Football unites the world,” the statement concluded, highlighting the spirit of sportsmanship and regional cooperation behind the unprecedented move.

Further details on the revised league calendar, match fixtures, and participation guidelines will be communicated in the coming weeks by the Rwanda Premier League management.

With this bold initiative, Rwanda positions itself not only as a growing football hub in East Africa but also as a beacon of hope and solidarity for African sport in times of crisis.