Vipers Sports Club has officially withdrawn from its scheduled Uganda Premier League (UPL) fixture against Kitara FC, citing unresolved concerns over the newly proposed double-header league format. The announcement, made on October 2 via the club’s official website and reinforced through formal letters to key stakeholders, marks a dramatic escalation in the ongoing standoff between the Kitende-based giants and the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
“Vipers Sports Club informs its stakeholders, football fans, and the general public that the club will not take part in the new double-header format game against Kitara,” the club stated.
The fixture, originally set for Saturday, October 4, now hangs in limbo as Vipers SC, one of Uganda’s most decorated football clubs refuses to participate until FUFA addresses their objections. The club’s leadership, including CEO and President Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa, has expressed deep dissatisfaction with FUFA’s handling of consultations, accusing the federation of sidelining privately owned clubs in critical decision-making processes.
In a strongly worded letter addressed to FUFA and copied to the Ministry of Education and Sports, sponsors, and fans, Vipers SC emphasized that their withdrawal is not an act of defiance but a principled stand for ethical governance and stakeholder inclusivity.
“We shall not participate in the said match or any other engagements under the new format until a formal response and resolution of our concerns is received,” the letter reads.
The club also criticized the lack of transparency and respect shown toward privately owned football institutions, warning that the reforms risk undermining the integrity of the sport.
The move has sent ripples across Uganda’s football landscape, with fans, sponsors, and fellow clubs awaiting FUFA’s response. Vipers SC’s decision could trigger broader resistance from other clubs who feel marginalized by the reforms, potentially destabilizing the league’s operations.
Despite the tension, Vipers SC expressed gratitude to its supporters and reaffirmed its commitment to justice and fair play.
“We thank our fans, genuine football lovers, and all stakeholders for their continued support and encouragement in the pursuit of proper governance,” the club concluded.
As the clock ticks toward the now uncertain fixture date, all eyes are on FUFA to respond to the growing unrest. Whether this standoff leads to meaningful dialogue or further division remains to be seen—but Vipers SC has made it clear: reform without representation is not an option.
